Months after a cease-fire, economic conditions in Gaza remain dire for many Palestinians, including Saleh’s family. This situation is largely due to trade restrictions imposed by Israel. Early in the conflict, the Israeli government limited trade with Gaza, allowing only a select few Palestinian businesses to receive import permits. This action drastically reduced competition.
Merchants pay multiple layers of fees to these chosen businesses, which raises costs significantly. The function or final recipients of these fees are often unclear. According to Ruwa Jabr, CEO of PalTrade, a Palestinian nonprofit, costs for shipments skyrocket. A shipment costing 100 shekels may end up costing 20,000 shekels or more by the time it reaches Gaza.
Israel’s restrictions on many basic goods have fueled a black market for smuggled items sold at exorbitant prices. A representative of COGAT, the Israeli security agency, claimed these restrictions are necessary to prevent Hamas and other groups from gaining resources or benefiting financially from trade.
Merchants importing food navigate a network of brokers and middlemen. Some of these individuals are connected to Israeli security services. Alleged smuggling operations involve figures like ‘Abu Basel’—a shadowy figure with supposed ties to Israeli intelligence.
Abu Basel reportedly orchestrated the transport of banned goods through border crossings, bringing in contraband like cigarettes and restricted items such as concrete and chicken. His associate, Raghib Salim, was indicted in connection with these operations.
“The cost of essentials in Gaza has skyrocketed,” said Tania Hary, executive director of Gisha, an Israeli human rights organization. Money from family abroad is often the only means through which Gazans can afford food and necessities.”
In London, Saleh struggles to support his family financially, having resorted to borrowing and fundraising campaigns. His debt now exceeds $125,000, causing stress and anxiety about his family’s survival.
Saleh’s connection to Gaza remains strong. He communicates daily with his family and monitors news about them and the broader situation. His brother Rashad provides updates, highlighting the challenges they face, such as seeking food in Khan Younis.
Saleh’s past is marked by personal tragedy and struggle under occupation. He recalls the loss of his sister Shaimaa during the Second Intifada, a devastating experience that continues to affect him.
Over the years, Saleh has navigated his own challenges, including fleeing Gaza for education abroad. His current focus is the survival of his family amidst the ongoing hardship in Gaza.
Trade restrictions have entrenched economic difficulties in Gaza, exacerbated by an opaque fee system. This has affected merchants’ ability to operate and has led to increased reliance on the black market for goods.
In light of these challenges, Saleh continues to explore avenues to assist his family, despite the mounting personal and economic costs. His story exemplifies the resilience and determination prevalent among many Palestinians facing similar circumstances.