Ankara: The beekeeping sector in Gaza is on the brink of collapse as the ongoing conflict with Israel has led to the destruction of apiaries, loss of vegetation, and restricted access to key grazing areas in the eastern part of Gaza. This situation has severely impacted the local honey industry, which was once a vital part of the region's economy.
According to Anadolu Agency, data from 2025 provided by the Cooperative Society of Beekeepers in Gaza indicates that the honey production sector has suffered losses estimated at approximately $39 million since October 2023. Nearly 30,000 beehives have been destroyed, which previously supplied the local market with around 380 to 400 tons of honey annually.
The conflict has also led to significant livelihood challenges for those involved in the industry. More than 85% of vegetation and forest grazing areas have been destroyed, leaving over 6,000 workers jobless and affecting the income of 905 registered beekeepers across Gaza by mid-2026. In the town of Al-Zawaida, Palestinian beekeeper Amin Eid and his son are among the few continuing to care for the remaining hives, attempting to preserve their family's beekeeping tradition.
Eid explained that the war has drastically changed the profession. The Israeli army's advance and the establishment of the 'Yellow Line' have prevented access to crucial grazing zones east of Salah al-Din Street. This has forced beekeepers, who once managed hundreds of hives, to start over with minimal resources and increased costs.
The 'Yellow Line' marks the separation line where the Israeli army withdrew under the first phase of a US plan to end the war, which began in October 2025. The ongoing insecurity and access restrictions prevent beekeepers from relocating their hives, as such attempts put their owners at risk.
Eid highlighted the soaring production costs, with prices for essential materials, such as wax sheets and hive frames, increasing significantly. A box of wax sheets has risen from about 30 shekels ($9.83) before the war to between 1,200 shekels ($393.20) and 1,500 shekels ($491.50), while hive frames now cost 15 shekels ($4.92) to 20 shekels ($6.55).
The beekeeping community is also facing a severe shortage of wood and boxes needed for rebuilding hives. This crisis has been exacerbated by the use of damaged hive parts as firewood during fuel shortages and famine. Eid has called for international organizations and agricultural groups to supply essential beekeeping materials and facilitate access to safe grazing areas.
Despite the challenges, Gaza's beekeepers are exploring alternatives to preserve their hives. They are relocating hives to coastal areas and residential neighborhoods and relying on small wild plants. The honey sector remains a critical source of food security and income for many Palestinian families striving to survive.