Gaza (HRNW): The ongoing war and humanitarian crisis have made even the most basic necessities of life extremely difficult to obtain in Gaza. For 46-year-old Rabab, a simple lighter in her hand has become one of her most valuable possessions.
In Gaza, even starting a fire to cook food or warm milk for children has become a major challenge. Trees are cut down and collected as firewood, which is then used to make fires for cooking whatever food families have available.
But a lighter is needed to start the fire. According to the information provided, matchboxes are also among the items prohibited or restricted from entering Gaza.
There was a time when three lighters could be purchased for one dollar. Today, the price of a single lighter has reportedly risen to as much as $30. Rabab, a mother of five, has been using the same lighter for a long time. Unable to afford a new one, she recently spent $12 having the old lighter repaired.
The severe shortage of basic necessities has placed ordinary people in Gaza under unimaginable hardship. The price of a simple lighter — and the need to repair and preserve it because replacing it is unaffordable — offers a stark illustration of the severity of the humanitarian crisis.
Human Rights Perspective
HRNW notes that the situation in Gaza reflects a grave humanitarian crisis affecting civilians’ access to basic human rights, including food, water, healthcare, shelter and other essential necessities.
Civilians should not be forced to live in conditions where something as basic as lighting a fire to warm milk for children or prepare food becomes an expensive and difficult task. Unhindered and safe humanitarian access, the provision of essential supplies and the protection of civilians must remain priorities.
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Disclaimer: This report is based on the information provided. Where prices and availability of specific items could not be independently verified, they are presented as reported information. HRNW supports the protection of civilians and fundamental human rights.
