Tripoli, February 17, 2026 – The Council for Sharia Research and Studies at the Libyan Dar al-Ifta announced that tomorrow, Wednesday, will complete the month of Sha’ban, and that Thursday will be the first day of the blessed month of Ramadan for the year 1447 AH.
The Council stated in a release this Tuesday evening that it had reviewed the reports submitted to it by the competent courts responsible for receiving sighting witnesses, as well as the report from the team tasked with monitoring the crescents using observatories and astronomical telescopes, affiliated with Dar al-Ifta. The sighting of the crescent was not confirmed tonight.
The Council congratulated the noble Libyan people and the Islamic nation on the arrival of the blessed month, praying to God Almighty to accept fasting and night prayers, and to bring it upon us and the lands of Muslims with security, victory, and empowerment.
Tripoli
Tripoli is the capital and largest city of Libya, with a history dating back to the 7th century BC when it was founded by the Phoenicians. It later became a significant Roman city and a major port under various rulers, including the Ottomans and Italians, which is reflected in its diverse architecture like the ancient Medina and Ottoman-era Red Castle.
Libyan Dar al-Ifta
The Libyan Dar al-Ifta is the official state institution responsible for issuing religious edicts (fatwas) in Libya. It was historically established to provide religious guidance based on Islamic law, playing a key role in the country’s legal and social affairs. Its influence and operations have evolved significantly through different political eras, including the monarchy, Gaddafi’s rule, and the post-2011 period.
Council for Sharia Research and Studies
The Council for Sharia Research and Studies is an Islamic academic institution, often associated with the Muslim Brotherhood, founded to promote scholarly work and legal opinions based on Islamic jurisprudence (Sharia). Its history is rooted in efforts to provide religious guidance and intellectual frameworks for applying Islamic principles in contemporary contexts.
Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. Its history is rooted in the Islamic tradition that it was during this month that the first verses of the Quran were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
