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As the Islamic holy month of Ramadan approaches, Muslims around the world are preparing to observe the month-long fast. This year, Ramadan is expected to begin on Wednesday, March 22nd and end on Friday, April 21st, with the celebratory days of Eid al-Fitr beginning on Saturday, April 22nd or Sunday, April 23rd. During Ramadan, Muslims are expected to fast from sunrise to sunset and break the fast with a pre-dawn meal and evening meal.

The release of the two hostages was the result of a joint effort between the governments of Niger and France. Secretary of State Antony Blinken thanked the government of Niger for their efforts in freeing Woodke and expressed his gratitude to the members of the State Department who worked on the case. French President Emmanuel Macron also thanked the government of Niger for their help in Dubois' release.