Muslims mark start of Ramadan

The first day of fasting began Monday in Indonesia, the world's most populous Muslim country, as well as the United States and the majority of the Middle East. Muslims in Libya marked the start of Ramadan Sunday, and Iran will begin to observe the fasting month Tuesday.

During Ramadan, Muslims awaken long before the pre-dawn call to prayer. Eating and drinking is a priority in those early hours, because once the sun rises, a day of fasting begins.

Muslims are expected to abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and sexual relations until sunset, when the fast is broken with a meal called "iftaar."

In the Gaza Strip, Palestinians observed the start of Ramadan Monday under the strain of an Israeli blockade, in place since Hamas seized control of the territory last year. Pakistan's government marked Ramadan with the suspension of a major military operation against militants in the country's northwest.

In Iraq, Sunni Muslims began the month of fasting Monday, while most Shi'ite Iraqis are expected to begin Tuesday. Iraqi Prime Minister Nouri al-Maliki called for peace and security throughout the month.

    Referring to the ongoing operation in Bajaur tribal agency, Malik said that the forces were targeting hideouts of militants and they were working on qualitative intelligence reports.

    He also disclosed that the government have moved 500,000 people to safe area in Bajaur Agency. The government provided the refugees food, medicines and camps, he said.

    The local Taliban had earlier announced unilateral ceasefire last week but the government rejected the offer and had continued operation.