Pakistanis face a subdued Eid al-Fitr as the US-Israeli war on Iran drives up fuel and food costs, squeezing household budgets and limiting celebrations

MULTAN: Preparations for Eid al-Fitr were underway in Pakistani markets and beauty salons, but the festive spirit was subdued by soaring inflation.

The ripple effects of the US-Israeli war against Iran are being felt across Pakistan, driving up costs for essential items.

Make-up artist Rozina Amjad said the charm of Chaand Raat, the Night of the Moon, has vanished due to the economic strain.

“Every poor person is distressed. It is affecting them deeply,” Amjad told AFP.

Pakistan relies on Gulf oil and gas, and war-induced fuel supply pressures have triggered price hikes and government austerity.

Rising oil prices have eroded purchasing power ahead of the Muslim calendar’s most important festival.

Housewife Suriya Muslim said her family’s budget was greatly affected, making Eid essentials very expensive.

“Now our car is just parked at home,” she added, fearing celebrations would be limited to their home.

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif cancelled military parades for Pakistan Day due to the Gulf crisis.

In Lahore, the Eid getaway saw packed trains and buses despite rising public transport fares.

Labourer Muhammad Ramzan decided against travelling to his village to see his children due to cost.

“They’re asking for far more than I can afford,” he said, adding he might just stay and work instead.

 The Sun Malaysia