From Above: How Food In Gaza Got So Expensive — And So Deadly
In a landscape ravaged by two years of war and the looming shadow of famine, ordinary Gazans find themselves navigating a dire economic reality where food has become both a luxury and a life-threatening commodity. The ongoing Israeli military campaign, coupled with a stringent blockade, has shattered traditional supply chains and forced the population into desperate measures to secure basic necessities.
The situation is exacerbated by the collapse of the local currency, which is now literally falling apart. With no new banknotes allowed into Gaza, residents are left to grapple with a currency that is as fragile as their circumstances. Enter the money fixers—individuals who painstakingly repair tattered bills, often using glue to mend what is broken. This informal economy has become essential for those trying to keep their financial lives intact amidst chaos.
For those unable to fix their currency, currency dealers offer an alternative, albeit at a steep price. A 50% commission ensures that cash is available to those willing to pay the exorbitant rates, raising the stakes for an already-struggling population. As prices soar, the market has morphed into one of the world’s most expensive, forcing families to make heart-wrenching choices about what they can afford.
Amidst this turmoil, food distribution centers have become a double-edged sword. While they offer the promise of essential aid, they also represent a dangerous battleground. With long lines and inadequate safety measures, these sites can turn deadly, as desperation drives people to risk their lives in a quest for sustenance. The tension and uncertainty surrounding food distribution contribute to a cycle of panic and hardship that permeates daily life in Gaza.
The challenges extend further to the choke points created by the distribution logistics. Aid trucks face delays and restrictions, increasing the volatility of an already precarious situation. When aid finally arrives, the anticipation often turns to frustration, as paltry amounts of food reach a population that is increasingly reliant on external assistance.
This economic ruin paints a bleak picture of life in Gaza, where the struggle for food is not just about scarcity but about survival in an environment fraught with danger. As the international community grapples with this humanitarian crisis, the stories of resilience and ingenuity among Gazans offer a stark reminder of the human spirit’s capacity to endure against all odds. In this dire setting, the quest for food transcends mere sustenance; it is a battle for dignity and existence in the face of overwhelming adversity.
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Video “From Above: How Food In Gaza Got So Expensive — And So Deadly | View From Above | Business Insider” was uploaded on 10/03/2025 to Youtube Channel Business Insider