Palestine: Economy

Domestic

Reports from Gaza indicate a sharp rise in the cost of everyday goods, with a pack of tobacco now costing 100 shekels. Concurrently, Israeli weapons companies are reported to have made large profits since the war began.

International

Donald Trump announced that members of a new group called the 'Board of Peace' have pledged billions of dollars for the reconstruction of Gaza, with reported figures ranging between $5 billion and $17 billion. The United States is planning a meeting on February 19 to discuss fundraising for Gaza's reconstruction, though some reports indicate donor reluctance to fund the U.S.-led plan. A US contractor reportedly sent a plan to the White House that would secure large profits from the rebuilding effort. In a separate development, Israeli authorities charged 12 people, including soldiers and the brother of a senior security official, with operating a smuggling ring that moved millions of dollars worth of goods into Gaza.