بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Q: We heard this evening the firing of the cannons (usually done in the Kingdom signifying the end of Ramadan) more than once which caused us to doubt if it was the eid or Ramadan. We waited to hear something -related to the subject- from the imam before dawn, but didn’t hear anything. So what is the ruling with regards to hesitancy of intent as it pertains to fasting or breaking the fast?
A: Binding upon a person is the obtaining of confirmation. The foundation is the permanence of what something is (which has been established upon certainty and sure knowledge) -up until- if there is such that is manifest (showing otherwise) that makes it explicitly clear to the people the ceasing of the predawn meal and the fast. At any rate, this day is considered to be Ramadan up until the passing of the month is firmly established consequently making the affair undoubtedly clear. As a result of this, it is obligatory for a person, in this type of scenario, to fast without hesitation, due to the foundation being the permanence of Ramadan. Afterwards, if it is made apparent that the day is eid then break the fast.
Source: فتاوى في أحكام الصيام