Palestine judge bans divorce during Ramadan

Palestinian courts are unable to registered divorces until after the Muslim month of fasting comes to an end, according to a new decree issued by the chief justice for Religious Affairs and Islamic Relations.

Mahmoud Al-Habash issued the ruling fearing a rise in divorces as a result of increased tensions as Muslims who are fasting feel the pangs of hunger and are restless because of their inability to smoke.

In a circular, Al-Habash called on judges to rely on the reports of the Family Guidance and Reform Department to assess the necessity of hearing and recording divorce cases during the holy month.

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