In Israel, tension overshadowed the first Friday prayers for Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting. The focal point of the latest tensions was the Al Aksa Mosque.

The month of Ramadan, the ninth month in the Muslim calendar and the holiest month of Islam, has begun. Muslims the world over have embarked on a month of abstinence, reflection, and soul searching.

The U.S. military has begun releasing nearly 80 Iraqi prisoners a day as a gesture during the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, the military announced Thursday.

Rosh Hashanah and Ramadan will be celebrated today by the Jewish and Muslim communities of Plainfield. Rosh Hashanah and Ramadan are the most important holidays in Jewish and Muslim communities.