The Struggle for White Gold in Gaza

In the midst of the ongoing crisis plaguing the residents of the Gaza Strip, a new term has emerged among the population – “white gold.”

In the local vernacular, this phrase has come to symbolize flour, the fundamental ingredient used to make bread, which has become a lifeline for the people of Gaza amid the scarcity of food supplies caused by the relentless Israeli aggression spanning three consecutive months.

The value assigned to this “white gold” stems from its exorbitant price, currently fetching nearly a hundred dollars per bag compared to its previous cost, which was a mere quarter of the current rate.

The term encapsulates the dire situation faced by the Gazan population as they grapple with the consequences of war.

The madness Israeli war against Gaza has triggered a severe food shortage, particularly affecting displaced families forced to hastily abandon their homes across the entire Gaza Strip.

For many, acquiring a 25-kilogram bag of flour has become an unattainable dream.

Yet, even after obtaining flour, a new crisis unfolds – how to bake it.

The relentless war waged by Israel, coupled with a stifling and immorally siege, has led to the suspension of cooking gas supplies.

As a result, families are left searching for alternative ways to cook, with the simple act of starting a fire becoming a primary concern for the people of Gaza striving to feed themselves and their children.

In response to this predicament, families have resorted to creating makeshift clay ovens, demonstrating their resilience and determination to adapt to the challenging circumstances imposed upon them.

Among the countless stories of hardship, one poignant account stands out – a daily routine of waking up every morning to start a fire.

This fire is not only a source of warmth but a lifeline for families like mine, ensuring the preparation of basic necessities like warm water to provide for my four-month-old daughter, Sarah.

The term “white gold” in Gaza is not merely a linguistic expression; it encapsulates the profound struggles and resilience of a community facing adversity with courage and resourcefulness.