Humanitarian crisis? Gold iPhones for sale in the Gaza Strip

A viral video of a diamond-encrusted iPhone for sale in Gaza challenges crisis narratives.

By World Israel News Staff

A Gazan merchant advertised a gold-plated, diamond-encrusted iPhone 17 Pro Max for sale in the Strip in a viral video that presents a stark contrast to the humanitarian crisis narrative promoted by international media.

The man, identified by his Instagram handle “Yosef Phone,” proudly displayed the luxury device, which comes with a gold-plated smartwatch and earbuds.

According to Hebrew-language reports, this particular model of the iPhone is among the most advanced — and is being offered for sale in Gaza even before it appears in the Israeli market.

Media reports indicate that iPhones are currently selling in the Strip for around 30,000 shekels (about $9,175).

Sources in Gaza who spoke to Ynet said the primary buyers of the phone are Hamas terrorists.

Notably, Gazan civilians have long complained that Hamas operatives and their families are looting humanitarian aid, hoarding essential goods and selling them to residents at exorbitant prices.

For years, Hamas and international critics of Israel have pushed the narrative that Gaza is suffering from a severe humanitarian crisis. But videos posted by Gazan civilians on social media are revealing a very different reality, especially following the Trump-brokered October ceasefire.

Earlier this week, a local bakery posted footage of a 2-meter (6.5-foot) long chocolate cake prepared to celebrate a high school graduation. The video shows dozens of Gazans singing, dancing, and enjoying the dessert.

Other recent clips on TikTok show bustling cafés, with Gazans sipping lattes, eating pastries, and socializing.

“At first we lived as if the city was dead. But now it is breathing — a little more every day,” Muhammad Haji, a resident of Gaza City, told Ynet.

“Every week another store opens and another family returns. We are starting over and it is not easy — but it is happening,” he added.