Ramazan moon sighted in Pakistan, fasting month begins on Thursday

The Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee on Wednesday announced that the crescent moon for Ramazan 1447 AH was sighted and the first fast of the holy month would be observed on Thursday.

Addressing a press conference in Peshawar, committee chairperson Maulana Muhammad Abdul Khabeer Azad confirmed the moon sighting testimonies, stating that 200 testimonies had been received.

"The moon has been sighted, and after receiving testimonies from various locations across Pakistan, it has been decided, with consensus, that the first day of Ramazan will be observed tomorrow.'

He said that the committee’s meeting was held in Peshawar, while zonal and provincial committees had convened in their respective regions.

پاکستان میں رمضان کا چاند نظر آگیا ہے، پہلا روزہ 19 فروری بروز جمعرات کو ہوگا۔ چیئرمین مرکزی رویتِ ہلال کمیٹی، مولانا عبدالخبیر آزاد#Ramazan #Ramzan2026 #RamazanKareem #MonthOfFasting #RamazanBlessings #RamazanSpirit #SpiritualMonth #RamazanPreparations #Iftar #Sehri… pic.twitter.com/VqzBwBcHNp

— APP (@appcsocialmedia) February 18, 2026

Azad warned against hoarding and profiteering, saying, "Hoarding must not be allowed."

He urged the government to take steps to control inflation by setting up affordable markets.

He also reminded the public that Ramazan was a month for good deeds, encouraging the nation to "earn blessings during this blessed month".

Azad condemned recent terrorist activities in Pakistan, particularly in Balochistan. "The foreign-backed extremists, who are spreading terrorism in Pakistan, are enemies of Islam and humanity. They are attempting to harm the peace of our nation," he said.

The chairperson praised the military’s efforts to defend the country against enemy forces. He also condemned suicide bombings, terrorism and the act of taking up arms against the state, stating that these actions were "forbidden".

Also Read: Islamabad, Sindh, K-P announce revised school hours for Ramazan

He reaffirmed a strong stance against terrorism, calling for solidarity among all religious scholars and the nation. Azad also highlighted the importance of collective efforts for the nation's development.

PM Shehbaz extends Ramazan greetings to nation, Muslims worldwide

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif extended heartfelt congratulations and best wishes to the people of Pakistan and Muslims worldwide on the beginning of Ramazan.

In his message, the prime minister emphasised the spiritual significance of the month, describing it as a special blessing. He highlighted that Ramazan provided Muslims with an opportunity to renew their devotion, humility and commitment to worship, while also fostering righteousness and piety.

PM Shehbaz noted that the true essence of worship during Ramazan lay not only in religious observances but in character reform, mutual sacrifice, compassion and fulfilling social responsibilities.

"Fasting is not merely the observance of a religious obligation; rather, it is practical training in patience, discipline and a sense of responsibility in our daily lives," he said.

As part of his message, the prime minister also pointed out that Ramazan served as a reminder for Muslims to focus on collective goodwill. He stressed the importance of helping the less fortunate, particularly during the holy month.

The prime minister further prayed for the acceptance of collective worship and good deeds.

Read More: Ramazan likely to begin on Feb 19: Suparco

The month holds great spiritual significance for Muslims around the world.

It is observed as a period of fasting, prayer and reflection. From dawn until sunset, those participating abstain from food and drink to practice self-discipline and focus on spiritual growth. It is also a time for increased charity and community, concluding with the celebration of Eidul Fitr.