The Palestine Marathon returned to Bethlehem for the first time in three years, drawing thousands of runners through streets shadowed by the concrete barrier separating Israel from the occupied West Bank. The route looped twice through refugee camps and farmland divided by walls and checkpoints, underscoring the movement restrictions faced by Palestinians. The race also included solidarity events abroad and shorter runs in Gaza, where disabled athletes and women participated despite the devastation of ongoing conflict.

For 27 year old Mohamad Al-Assi, the marathon marked a personal turning point. Released from Israeli detention six months ago after more than two and a half years in prison, he began rebuilding his strength and endurance through months of disciplined training. He had been held for transferring funds to suspicious entities, a charge he denies, and said imprisonment left him physically weakened and emotionally shattered.

Crossing the finish line in second place, Al-Assi collapsed to his knees in gratitude and dedicated his run to Palestinians still in detention. His achievement symbolized resilience for many in the West Bank and Gaza, where public events have been curtailed by war and economic hardship but where crowds gathered in Bethlehem to celebrate a rare moment of collective hope.