Should the UN exert pressure on Israel to permit the reintroduction of tobacco into the Gaza Strip? An analysis of the economic and humanitarian ramif

Smoking adversely affects both the economic and public health; however, the prohibition of tobacco imports into Gaza has resulted in extensive cigarette smuggling, driving prices to exceed $25 a cigarette. Nagham Mohanna

The Wall Street Journal stated that traffickers are utilising humanitarian aid vehicles to transport contraband, resulting in violent assaults on these shipments and worsening the already critical situation in Gaza.

Regarding smoking behaviour, families, particularly the head of the family, typically the father, are compelled to divert important resources into smoking rather than necessities such as food or healthcare.

In the article "Puffs of Gold: Sharing a $30 Cigarette in Wartime Gaza," Mohanna examines how the severe shortage of cigarettes in Gaza, caused by import restrictions and smuggling, has resulted in astronomical costs. In this situation, individuals are compelled to share individual smokes as a luxury commodity. The economic burden of this illicit trade intensifies household financial strain, leading many to prioritise cigarettes over essential needs. This aligns with apprehensions in the broader discourse around tobacco's reintroduction as a harm reduction technique to alleviate additional financial burdens on already vulnerable households. The Wall Street Journal

A significant proportion of adults dedicate portions of their constrained household budgets on cigarettes, exacerbating financial strain on families and undermining the efficacy of cash assistance programs like UNICEF. This adversely affects families and weakens initiatives aimed at assisting children and vulnerable populations.

The lawful importation of cigarettes may save expenses. This would alleviate financial burdens on households, particularly those compelled to prioritise tobacco above essential needs. Despite appearing contradictory, this approach may function as a damage reduction method, mitigating the financial strain on displaced individuals already enduring hardship in this war-torn area. Improving economic access to tobacco would diminish the likelihood of smuggling and its adverse effects on humanitarian efforts.

联合国儿童基金会 World Food Programme Oxfam