Despite constant complaints of shortages and high prices in the Gaza Strip, prices of some goods, including the PlayStation 5 (PS5), are surprisingly low, according to a video obtained by French journalist Jonathan Serrero on Sunday.
Israel en Gael: Has the PlayStation 5 caused a massacre of human victims? Not yet. Gaza magazines are battling violence, health and the Sony gaming console after the pandemic. pic.twitter.com/ZeBJkGmAHq
— Jonathan Serero (@sererojonathan) September 15, 2024
The video shows PS5 gaming consoles, fresh fruit, soaps, perfumes, sweets, snacks and soft drinks for sale at a market in central Gaza.
“In Gaza during the war, you can buy anything from the street stalls,” the same resident was heard saying, excitedly explaining that he’d bought the console for just 700 shekels — its current retail price on Sony’s website is $499.99.
The video sparked shock and anger among several prominent right-wing Israeli commentators, with many saying it was evidence that Netanyahu was being too soft on Gaza.
PlayStation prices soar
When the PS5 first launched in 2020, there was a massive shortage of the console, causing prices to rise to more than two to three times the retail price. One person said they spent £900 on a PS5, according to the Metro, while The Guardian reported that some people had paid closer to £1,200.
Prices stabilized as the global release progressed, but often remained above retail prices for several months.
Once the PS5s were approved for import into Gaza, Israeli wholesalers sold them to Gaza merchants at a premium price of between £765 and £860, according to The Guardian.
Imports continue to be supplied primarily by gaming cafes, which charge a fee to play on gaming machines.