International Union of Muslim Scholars: No obstacle to fasting except for those ill with coronavirus

(Patria) - The International Union of Muslim Scholars (IUMS) considered certain debates about fasting during the pandemic and concluded that the coronavirus (COVID-19) does not pose an obstacle to fasting, except for people infected with the virus.

The International Union of Muslim Scholars clearly stated that the coronavirus does not pose an obstacle to fasting, except for people infected with the virus.

"Fasting in the month of Ramadan is one of the most fundamental rules of Islam. Fasting is, by clear provisions, an obligation for all adult Muslims, except for those who are exempt from this obligation due to certain conditions such as illness, travel, old age, and pregnancy. Also, COVID-19 is not a justified reason not to fast, except for those people who have the disease. Scientific and medical research shows that fasting does not weaken the immune system, on the contrary, it renews cells in the body and benefits the organism," the statement said.

It is further added that Muslims in countries where mosques are closed as part of health measures introduced due to the coronavirus should perform tarawih prayers in their homes.

An appeal was also made to Muslim countries to, as part of measures against the COVID-19 pandemic, release all prisoners, reach an agreement and stop wars in the month of Ramadan, lift blockades, and release scholars from prison.