The race, known as the Palestine Marathon, was held for the first time in three years and was among the first big international events in the West Bank since the start of the Israel-Hamas war. It marked a turning point for Mohamad Al-Assi, 27, who was released from Israeli detention six months ago after being in prison for more than two and a half years. 

“The main difficulties we face are the cars on the roads and the presence of Israeli security forces along the route where I train,” Al-Assi said. He had to suspend his training several times because of military operations in the camp.