Horse race returns to Palestinian village after wartime halt

Horse races have returned to the West Bank village of Al-Majd, located west of Hebron, as tensions persist between Israelis and Palestinians. The annual event, which had been suspended for two years following the Gaza war, took place this week despite ongoing conflict. Event coordinator Ismael Abu Awad acknowledged the limitations posed by financial and logistical constraints, but expressed his team's efforts to provide whatever resources they could.

The race featured Arabian horses, a breed with deep cultural significance in Palestinian society, and drew enthusiastic crowds who cheered the riders from rooftops. As the competition concluded, jubilant celebrations ensued, with supporters gathering around the victorious jockey and hoisting trophies high in the air. Arabian horses carry special cultural weight in Palestine, with races and equestrian events held across the West Bank, uniting people from various towns and villages.

While open land for such events has become scarce due to expanding Israeli settlement construction, the local community continues to uphold this tradition. For them, the race symbolized more than just a sporting event; it was an effort to preserve Arab heritage cherished by their ancestors. Event coordinator Abu Awad emphasized the importance of this tradition, stating that it provided an opportunity for local jockeys who face difficulties participating in international races to showcase their skills.

Some participants also harbored ambitions beyond the local track, with racer Mohammed Al-Ajlouni expressing his desire to travel to Italy to ride horses in the future.