One day after Israel implemented a halt on the entry of all goods and humanitarian assistance into the Gaza Strip, residents are experiencing immediate repercussions, with prices for essential items rising sharply.
Iman Saber, a 24-year-old nurse from northern Gaza, expressed her shock at Israel's decision to block aid and commercial shipments. She noted that prices for sugar, oil, and chicken have already increased, undermining hopes that had been raised by a recent cease-fire between Israel and Hamas.
Israel's suspension of goods and aid, including fuel, is intended to pressure Hamas into accepting a new proposal for extending the cease-fire, which had paused hostilities after 15 months of conflict. Just hours before the border closure was announced, Israel proposed a seven-week extension contingent on Hamas releasing half of the remaining hostages taken during the October 7, 2023, attack.
The renewed blockade affects both humanitarian aid and commercial goods, leading to an almost immediate impact on prices in the already devastated enclave. Many Gazans were struggling to observe the holy month of Ramadan, typically a time of celebration and worship.
Ms. Saber lamented the return of despair, stating, “We were able to breathe for a bit and feel some hope again. But now, we’re feeling depressed again.”
The United Nations and various aid organizations have raised concerns over Israel's decision to block supply shipments. Oxfam described the action as “a reckless act of collective punishment,” while Doctors Without Borders emphasized that humanitarian aid should never be weaponized, warning of devastating consequences in Gaza.
Tom Fletcher, the U.N. under secretary general for humanitarian affairs, condemned the blockade, asserting that international humanitarian law mandates access for delivering vital aid. Hamas also criticized the Israeli move, labeling it as “blackmail.”
Israeli officials maintain that the aid and goods that have entered Gaza in recent months are sufficient for several more months. However, five nonprofit organizations in Israel have filed a motion with the High Court of Justice seeking to prevent the government from cutting off aid to Gaza, arguing that halting aid is illegal.
Reports indicate that even available food may become increasingly unaffordable for many Gazans. A resident from Beit Hanoun noted that the price of sugar has already surged from six to ten shekels, while another resident reported that the price of tomatoes has jumped from eight to twenty shekels.
Some traders are reportedly withholding goods to sell them later at inflated prices, further straining the financial situation for Gazans. In response, the Gazan Interior Ministry has urged residents to report price increases and merchants exploiting the situation, stating it would take strict measures against price gouging.
Police forces have been deployed to monitor market conditions and ensure the availability of basic goods at current prices. The aid halt follows a significant increase in humanitarian supplies entering Gaza during the initial phase of the cease-fire, which had provided temporary relief amid warnings of a looming famine.
During the conflict, fewer than 100 trucks per day were entering Gaza, with deliveries often suspended. Relief agencies have accused Israel of imposing overly restrictive measures on aid deliveries, a claim that Israel has denied.