In a region devastated by nearly two years of unending conflict, the struggle for daily survival has reached almost unimaginable extremes. A simple packet of Parle-G that is a tea-time staple in India is now reportedly being sold for over Rs 2,300 in Gaza, transforming an everyday snack into a rare luxury
A viral post by Mohammed Jawad, a Palestinian living in Gaza, has cast global attention on the worsening wartime crisis. In a video posted to X (formerly Twitter), Jawad’s young daughter, Rafif, is seen clutching a packet of Parle-G, a rare indulgence in a region teetering on the edge of famine. Jawad disclosed that he spent over €24 (roughly Rs 2,342) on the packet, even though it typically sells for under Rs 5 in India and about Rs 100 at international grocery stores.
“Even though the price jumped from €1.5 to over €24, I just couldn’t deny Rafif her favorite treat,” he posted on X (formerly Twitter), touching hearts—and sparking surprise—around the world, especially among Indian users for whom Parle-G represents both affordability and nostalgic childhood memories.
The post quickly went viral, prompting many to tag Indian officials and the Parle company for help.
A user wrote: "India sent Parle G to Palestinians as an Aid but Aid trucks get captured by Hamas and they sell the food and medicines in black to the hungry Palestinians. Rs 5 Parle-G being sold at Rs 2,500. This is the real face of the so-called resistance exploiting the misery of innocents."
Jawad responded, clarifying that much of the humanitarian aid is being stolen or sold at exorbitant prices by opportunists.
He said, "Some people think the aid that comes for the people of Gaza is distributed fairly. But the truth is that the occupation has recruited many agents and thieves to steal this aid and sell it on the market at sky-high prices. For example, flour is sold for around $500, and sugar is sold for about $90 per kilogram. All basic goods are sold at insane prices. Some people, who can’t afford to buy, risk their lives just to get what they need. Meanwhile, others steal large quantities and sell them in the market for huge profits."
The steep prices highlight the breakdown of Gaza's supply chains due to an almost complete blockade. Following the collapse of a ceasefire in March, Israel has imposed even stricter limitations on aid, citing fears that Hamas might misuse the supplies for military use. Meanwhile, aid groups report severe hunger and an escalating humanitarian crisis.
A new UN report released on Thursday reveals a troubling reality: acute malnutrition among children under five in Gaza has almost tripled since February. Among 50,000 children assessed in late May, 5.8% were found to be acutely malnourished—an increase from 4.7% just a few weeks prior, and significantly higher than the rates observed during the temporary ceasefire in February.
The UN-supported "nutrition cluster" also reported a rise in severe acute malnutrition cases — a life-threatening condition that makes children highly susceptible to infections. Treatment centers in northern Gaza and Rafah have reportedly closed, citing shortages of medical supplies, conflict-related damage, or direct attacks. Israel denies these allegations, asserting that some of the facilities are being used by Hamas for military activities.
In an alarming statement, Doctors Without Borders (MSF) said that Gaza's medical workers are now donating their own blood to treat patients, following attacks on civilians attempting to access food aid.
Palestinian officials say at least 29 people — mostly children and the elderly — died of starvation-related causes in recent days alone.
As Rafif clings to her Parle-G biscuit, what was once a symbol of Indian simplicity now underscores the grim reality of a population on the brink — where even the most basic treats have become objects of yearning, scarcity, and survival.
Discover the latest Business News, Sensex, and Nifty updates. Obtain Personal Finance insights, tax queries, and expert opinions on Moneycontrol or download the Moneycontrol App to stay updated!
