Horse racing returns to Palestinian village after two-year wartime halt
Dubai: The thunder of hooves and clouds of dust returned to the hills west of Hebron as Palestinian riders raced Arabian horses through Al-Majd village, drawing cheers from residents. The annual race in the Israeli-occupied West Bank had been suspended for two years following the outbreak of the Gaza war. It returned this week despite continued tensions in the region. Riders sped along a winding…
After a two-year hiatus due to the Gaza conflict, horse racing resumed in the West Bank village of Al-Majd, located west of Israeli-occupied Hebron. The annual event, which draws crowds of spectators, saw local riders compete on Arabian horses along a dirt track through the village's rocky terrain.
Event coordinator Ismael Abu Awad acknowledged the financial and logistical hurdles that arose as a result of the war, but emphasized the community's determination to keep the tradition alive. Arabian horses hold a special cultural significance in Palestine, with races frequently taking place across the region.
For the younger generation, the return of the event provided an opportunity to develop their riding abilities despite the limitations imposed by the conflict zone. Racer Mohammed Al-Ajlouni expressed aspirations to travel abroad to continue honing his skills.
The final race concluded with jubilant celebrations as the winning jockey was enveloped by supporters who surrounded him, proudly displaying trophies. The resumption of the race represents a moment of normalcy for the residents of Al-Majd, who have endured years of uncertainty and unrest in the region.
Written by urgent.news from Gulf News's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
