A fresh controversy has erupted over Sheikh Habeeb Adam Al-Ilory’s Eid announcement, with reports suggesting that his declaration was copied from a publication by astrologers dated March 26, 2025, who have been challenging Saudi Arabia’s moon sighting process.

According to the publication on Middle East Eye (middleeasteye.net - https://www.middleeasteye.net/news/eid-2025-does-saudi-arabia-report-impossible-moonsightings ), these astrologers argue that Saudi authorities fail to properly sight the moon before declaring the beginning and end of Ramadan. This raises questions about whether Sheikh Habeeb Adam Al-Ilory’s announcement was based on verified moon sighting reports or simply a reproduction of these claims.

The astrologers’ publication of March 26, 2025, explicitly criticizes the Saudi practice, claiming that astronomical predictions should be given more weight instead of traditional moon sightings. This has sparked a significant debate among scholars and the Muslim community, with some questioning the authenticity of relying on astronomical calculations over traditional moon sighting methods.

As discussions continue, many are watching to see how Islamic scholars and authorities will respond to these allegations. Could this controversy change the way Eid announcements are made in the future? Drop your thoughts in the comments!