On February 18, 2026, the Central Ruet-e-Hilal Committee convened in Peshawar to observe the crescent moon, with the chairman, Maulana Abdul Khabir Azad, expected to announce the sighting shortly. The Pakistan Space and Upper Atmosphere Research Commission (SUPARCO) indicated that the moon would be 25 hours and 48 minutes old at sunset, making it likely visible to the naked eye. This development confirms that the first day of fasting in Pakistan is anticipated to be on February 19, coinciding with the start of Ramadan in several Gulf countries, including Saudi Arabia and Qatar, where the first fast was observed on the same day. The Supreme Court of Saudi Arabia had previously confirmed the moon sighting based on testimonies from various regions, leading to widespread celebrations among Muslims worldwide. Additionally, local Muslim communities in countries such as the USA, France, and Japan have also announced the commencement of Ramadan today, following the Saudi announcement.