Imported iPhone 17s, including gold-plated versions, selling for record sums in Gaza — report

Channel 12 reports that iPhone 17 devices — including gold-plated models — are being sold in the Gaza Strip “at exorbitant prices,” after retailers managed to import the newest Apple smartphone through recently opened border crossings.

According to the report, some Gazan merchants received shipments of the phones before the model was even released in Israel. Prices in the Strip are currently listed at between NIS 6,500 and 7,500 ($2,000-2,300), though they reportedly reached NIS 10,000 ($3,000) when the devices first arrived. By comparison, the iPhone 17 sells for NIS 3,000 to 5,200 ($900-1,600) in Israel.

Videos circulating online show Gazan businesses promoting their new stock of iPhones to local consumers.

Available in the Gaza Strip today 25 Nov 2025 – gold plated iPhone 17 Pro Max, with diamond beads. Comes with a gold smart watch!
Sold by Yosif Phone, Khan Younes Mawasi, South Gaza Strip.
Timestamp: 9 hours ago#TheGazaYouDontSee
Link to Instagram links in 1st comment pic.twitter.com/nNGKMy4UBs

— Imshin (@imshin) November 25, 2025

The images stand in sharp contrast to conditions in much of the Strip, where many Palestinians continue to live in tents, more than two years into the war. But the report notes that a wealthier segment of Gazan society remains able to purchase high-end luxury goods.