Breaking News: Moon Sighting Status Today In Pakistan 2026
Today, Wednesday, February 18, 2026, the central crescent sighting meeting for Ramadan 1447 AH is being held in Peshawar under the supervision of the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee.
The meeting is chaired by Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad at Auqaf Hall, Peshawar. Zonal Ruet-e-Hilal committees are simultaneously meeting in Karachi, Lahore, Quetta, and Islamabad.
Current Moon Sighting Status (As of Early Evening)
Probability Level: HIGH
Scientific Forecast: Strong likelihood of visibility
According to data from the Pakistan Meteorological Department and SUPARCO:
- Moon age at sunset: approximately 25 hours 48 minutes
- Illumination percentage: sufficient for naked-eye visibility
- Weather conditions: Mostly clear across Punjab, Sindh, and KP
Astronomers indicate that under normal atmospheric clarity, the crescent should be visible across most parts of Pakistan.
Important Timings for Tonight (Pakistan Standard Time)
- Sunset (Islamabad/Peshawar): 5:56 PM – 6:01 PM
- Observation Window: 6:15 PM – 7:00 PM
- Expected Official Announcement: Between 8:00 PM – 8:30 PM
The final decision will be announced live after Maghrib once testimonies are verified.
What Happens If the Moon Is Sighted?
If confirmed tonight:
- 1st Ramadan 1447 AH: Thursday, February 19, 2026
- First Taraweeh: Tonight after Isha
- Banks: Closed tomorrow for public dealing (Zakat deduction)
Mosques nationwide will begin Taraweeh approximately 15–20 minutes after Isha prayer.
What If the Moon Is NOT Sighted?
If no reliable testimonies are received:
- Shaban will complete 30 days
- 1st Ramadan will be Friday, February 20, 2026
However, given astronomical projections, this scenario appears unlikely.
Who Does Moon Sighting in Pakistan?
Moon sighting is officially handled by:
- Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee (National Level)
- Zonal Committees in provincial capitals
- Technical input from PMD & SUPARCO
The chairman announces the final verdict after reviewing all testimonies.
Has the Moon Been Sighted Yet?
As of now, the official announcement is pending.
The confirmed status will be declared between 8:00 PM and 8:30 PM tonight.
How Many Days Is Ramadan 2026 Expected to Be?
Based on astronomical models:
- Likely 30 days
- Expected Eid-ul-Fitr: Saturday, March 21, 2026
Final confirmation depends on Shawwal moon sighting.
What Time Will Iftar Be in 2026? (Day 1 Expected)
Approximate Iftar times on 1st Ramadan (if Thursday, Feb 19):
- Lahore: 5:54 PM
- Karachi: 6:29 PM
- Islamabad: 5:56 PM
- Peshawar: 6:01 PM
- Quetta: 6:32 PM
Times vary slightly by city and fiqh.
Regional Comparison
Saudi Arabia and Gulf countries began fasting today (Wednesday). Traditionally, Pakistan begins one day later, aligning with Thursday as the expected start.
Public Advisory for Tonight
- Avoid spreading unverified social media rumors
- Wait for the official Ruet-e-Hilal announcement
- Prepare for Taraweeh if moon is confirmed
- Check with your local mosque for exact prayer timings
Summary
- Moon sighting probability: High
- Official decision expected tonight after 8 PM
- Ramadan likely to begin Thursday, February 19, 2026
- Banks may close tomorrow for Zakat deduction
- Taraweeh likely to start tonight
