The revival of the pottery industry highlights the resilience of Gaza's residents in the face of adversity and scarcity.
The increased demand for traditional pottery reflects a cultural preference for traditional cooking methods and the challenges posed by modern supply chain disruptions.
The war's impact on the industrial sector illustrates the broader economic challenges facing Gaza, exacerbated by long-standing blockades and restrictions.
If the war continues, the pottery industry may further expand as residents seek more sustainable and locally sourced alternatives to imported goods.
The ongoing conflict may lead to a permanent shift in consumer preferences towards traditional and handmade products as a means of cultural preservation and resilience.
As international aid efforts continue to be hampered, local industries like pottery may play a crucial role in providing essential goods for the population.
The traditional pottery industry in the Gaza Strip is experiencing a revival despite the ongoing Israeli war, which has lasted for 14 months. This resurgence is largely due to a severe shortage of plates and dinnerware, prompting residents to seek alternative solutions. Jaafar Atallah, a pottery workshop owner in Deir al-Balah, reports unprecedented demand for pottery items, producing around 100 pieces daily, including soup pots and containers. Before the war, he could produce up to 1,500 pieces a day, but the conflict has devastated many pottery factories in the region.
The price of pottery has significantly increased, with Atallah selling each piece for 10 shekels ($2.7), nearly five times its pre-war price. The blockade imposed by Israel since 2007 has worsened the situation, making it difficult for international aid organizations to deliver essential goods. The war has paralyzed Gaza's industrial sector, leading to factory closures and raw material shortages, while hospitals struggle with power outages affecting healthcare services.
Despite the availability of metal and plastic utensils before the war, many families prefer clay pots for their traditional cooking benefits. Residents have adapted to the ongoing crisis by using clay drinking vessels to keep water cool, as the water distribution network has been severely damaged. The United Nations reports that nearly all of Gaza's 2.4 million residents have been displaced at least once, with many living in temporary shelters or on the streets. This situation has led to a reliance on innovative solutions to cope with the ongoing challenges, including the use of donkeys for transportation amid fuel shortages.
