Our Bureau
Gaza
Parle-G, India’s iconic biscuit known for its affordability and nostalgia, has become a symbol of crisis in war-torn Gaza, where it now sells for up to Rs 2,400—a staggering 500 times its original Indian price. Once a staple for millions, the humble Rs 5 packet has turned into a rare luxury amid acute food shortages caused by the ongoing conflict.
Following the escalation of hostilities in October 2023 and Israel’s subsequent military campaign, Gaza has faced a near-total blockade, pushing the region into severe famine. Humanitarian aid, including food supplies, has been heavily restricted, with only a trickle of trucks allowed entry after intense international pressure. Traditional UN food deliveries were suspended, replaced by the controversial Secure Distribution Site 1 (SDS1) model in Rafah, which has drawn criticism for its restrictive and heavily guarded distribution process.
In this environment, basic food items have become scarce and exorbitantly expensive. A recent viral post from Gaza showed a man purchasing Parle-G biscuits for over 24 euros (Rs 2,342), highlighting the desperation and inflated prices on the black market. “After a long wait, I finally got Ravif her favorite biscuits today. Even though the price jumped from €1.5 to over €24, I just couldn’t deny Ravif her favorite treat,” the post read.
The price surge is not limited to Parle-G. Essential commodities like sugar, cooking oil, and vegetables are also selling at astronomical rates—1 kg of sugar costs Rs 4,914, while 1 kg of onions is priced at Rs 4,423. Dr. Khaled Alshawwa, a Gaza-based surgeon, explained that while these goods often arrive as humanitarian aid, only a minority receive them. The scarcity fuels a thriving black market, making everyday items unaffordable for most residents.