Donkeys in Gaza city have become more valuable than cars today. The weekly donkeys markets have begun to see some very lively trading activity. Streets are being emptied of cars, some even going to the extent of selling their four-wheelers to buy the beasts. Though people are dreaming a walk back into the past, probably even assuming the return of the Turks, the real reason behind this donkey dynamics has political and economic undertones.

In the civil war between the Hamas and the Fatah in June 2007, both being political parties as well as militant organizations at the same time, the Hamas took control of the Gaza strip while Fatah gained the West Bank in retaliation. Following this the president of the Palestinian Authority, Mahmoud Abbas of Fatah, dismissed Hamas from the government and formed a new cabinet. While this cabinet has gained international recognition, Hamas at the Gaza strip face diplomatic isolation. Israel has even called this government based at Gaza a hostile entity, a critical remark for not controlling the Qassam rocket fire into its territory. So, how is politics related to donkeys?

Israel has closed its relations with the government at Gaza. The strip itself is completed isolated from the outside world, with the only little supplies being humanitarian. Petroleum supplies have been badly hit with Israel cutting down regular deliveries. With high demand for fuel coupled with the strike by Petrol station owners at Gaza, driving cars has become economically very dearer. The natural alternative has been the donkeys, which need no fuel, no spare parts or tyres. Even exports have stopped and as a result prices of some commodities and vegetables have fallen down. Many unemployed persons are looking at selling these items door-to-door using donkeys.

While Israeli government officials deny a drastic cut in fuel supplies, many aid agencies have confirmed acute shortage. Donkey markets meanwhile have come live all of a sudden with high prices in the offering. All this looks fine at the moment. Problems will soon emerge when the shortage of essential items will begin to be felt. For now, one can only hope that the Hamas responds to International calls to establish peace.

News Source: The Independent

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