Gaza Faces Severe Fuel and Gas Shortages Amid Rising Prices

The Gaza Strip is experiencing a critical shortage of fuel and gas, significantly impacting daily life and economic activities. Since the onset of the conflict, the price of electricity has surged from approximately 2.5 shekels ($0.80) per kilowatt-hour to between 20 and 30 shekels ($7 to $10), making it unaffordable for many households. Abdullah Jamal, a local baker, illustrates the dire situation as he resorts to burning wood to bake bread for displaced families, highlighting the rationing of gas due to fears of further supply cuts.

Despite a recent "truce" agreement between Israeli forces and Hamas, which allowed for limited fuel shipments, the actual supplies entering Gaza have fallen drastically short of expectations. Reports indicate that only 1,190 fuel trucks have been allowed into the enclave out of the 8,050 anticipated since the ceasefire began, resulting in a compliance rate of just 14.7%. The Gaza Petroleum Authority estimates that the territory requires between 350 and 400 cooking gas trucks monthly, alongside millions of liters of diesel and gasoline, but current deliveries are insufficient.

The economic ramifications of the fuel crisis are profound. Iyad al-Shorbaji, director general of Gaza’s Petroleum Authority, notes that the limited fuel supplies are disrupting both the economic and service sectors. Facilities are forced to purchase gas originally intended for households, exacerbating the scarcity. Households now receive only 8kg (18lbs) of gas at irregular intervals, a stark contrast to pre-war conditions where families could access gas as needed.

The rising costs of fuel are attributed to various factors, including increased purchase prices, transportation expenses, and coordination fees for suppliers. Al-Shorbaji describes the situation as a result of "policies of suffocation and restriction" imposed by Israeli authorities, which control the crossings into Gaza.

Critics of the current fuel management system argue that the limited supplies and high prices are a direct consequence of Israeli policies. The humanitarian protocol established during the ceasefire has not been adequately implemented, leading to widespread hardship among the population. Many families are unable to afford alternative energy sources, leaving them without reliable electricity or gas.

Al-Shorbaji has expressed hope for an improvement in fuel and gas supplies, contingent on changes to Israeli procedures governing the crossings into Gaza. He emphasizes the urgent need for increased shipments to meet the basic needs of the population.

• “He adds that people continue to ration gas use despite limited quantities being allowed into the enclave in recent months, fearing supplies could be cut off again.” — Abdullah Jamal, Local Baker

The ongoing fuel crisis in Gaza underscores the complex interplay of conflict, humanitarian needs, and economic stability, with significant implications for the daily lives of its residents.