Continuing Struggles in Gaza’s War-Torn Economy

Months after a cease-fire, the economy in Gaza is still suffocating for many Palestinians, including families like Saleh’s. Israel’s restrictions have significantly contributed to these economic challenges. Early in the conflict, Israel imposed strict trade controls on Gaza, allowing only a select few Palestinian businesses to obtain import permits. This narrow selection significantly reduced competition and created a system in which merchants faced multiple layers of fees. These fees increased the cost of goods drastically by the time they reached Gaza.

Ruwa Jabr, CEO of PalTrade, a Palestinian nonprofit, explained, “A shipment that should cost 100 shekels ends up costing 20,000 shekels or more.” The Israeli list of banned or restricted imports, which includes basic goods like poultry and hygiene products, has also fueled a black market. These goods are sold at inflated prices, complicating matters for ordinary Gazans.

“Israel has used its control to create scarcity,” said Tania Hary from the Israeli human rights organization Gisha. “I see that as a concerted strategy to keep the population dependent.”

For many Gazans, money sent from relatives abroad is crucial for affording essentials. Saleh, based in London, documents his family’s struggles, sharing financial impacts with The Times. Over two years, he has exhausted his savings and is now dealing with significant debt, all in an effort to support his family.

Merchants attempting to import food face hurdles, with a complex process involving brokers, costly middlemen, and black-market operators. Allegations from Gazan traders describe a smuggling operation by a figure named Abu Basel, with purported Israeli intelligence ties, coordinating the movement of banned goods through various crossings.

An investigation into this sophisticated operation uncovered illicit movement of goods, such as cigarettes and restricted items like concrete and poultry. Gazans report that navigating these opaque economic systems has severe consequences for their everyday lives.

Flour prices, which were once affordable, have skyrocketed due to these restrictions. Rashad, Saleh’s brother, reports price increases for essential items like flour and eggs, reinforcing how dire the economic situation has become for families in Gaza.

Saleh wakes up each day to engage in various activities aimed at gathering resources for his family’s survival. Using multiple communication platforms, he monitors news, seeks donations, and appeals to foreign embassies and aid groups for support.

Family and History

Saleh’s family history is steeped in the hardships faced by those living in Gaza. Growing up in Rafah, Saleh’s family shared stories of displacement and loss, which shaped his perspective. A significant personal tragedy occurred during the Second Intifada when his sister, Shaimaa, was killed by an Israeli tank. This event left a lasting impact on Saleh and his family.

In a pursuit of better prospects, Saleh left Gaza, securing an exit in 2021 for the U.K. He initially struggled with adapting to life abroad but eventually built a new life, seeking asylum in Britain. Yet, the 2023 outbreak of war blurred the lines between his past and present, drawing questions about what the future holds for his family.

The Absence of Aid and Continuing Struggles

Throughout the conflict, Gaza’s trade systems remained restricted, with most commercial imports halted or severely controlled. The high fees and restricted imports led to increased smuggling and black-market operations, raising everyday product costs significantly.

In addition to serious bureaucratic barriers, medical challenges became a grave concern. Saleh’s father, Kamal, suffered from a stroke while living in a displacement camp, and necessary medical supplies remained scarce or unattainable.

For Saleh’s family in Khan Younis, every day becomes focused on survival amidst shortages and high costs. Amid these harsh conditions, Saleh works tirelessly to fund their basic needs, maintaining hope for their safety and eventual stability.