Gaza crisis: soaring costs of basic needs amid war

In Gaza, the ongoing conflict has led to a severe humanitarian crisis, with basic needs becoming increasingly unaffordable. The cost of essential commodities has skyrocketed, making Gaza the most expensive place in the world for simple goods. For instance, the price of a donkey cart has surged from £500 to at least £3,000, reflecting the rampant inflation affecting the region. Fuel prices have also risen dramatically, now costing £17 per litre, down from a peak but still exorbitant for the local population. The use of donkeys has become vital in the daily lives of Gazans, as they are employed for various tasks such as transporting water, food, and waste. This reliance on donkeys highlights the lack of infrastructure and resources available to the people. Despite the destruction and chaos, some semblance of civil administration persists, as evidenced by the donkey carts moving through the streets, albeit filled with rubbish. Surgeons returning from the war have reported the dire conditions, with shortages of food, water, fuel, and medication taking a heavy toll on the population. The humanitarian situation is exacerbated by the ongoing conflict, which has lasted for 11 months, leading to widespread devastation and suffering. As the crisis continues, the people of Gaza face an uphill battle to meet their basic needs, with inflation and scarcity compounding their struggles. The situation calls for urgent international attention and assistance to alleviate the suffering of those affected by the war.