Shopping Habits Change Amid Rising Anxiety in Israel
The Yedioth Ahronot newspaper has published a striking report on the shopping preparations that Israelis have been making in response to their increasing concerns in recent days. In particular, there has been a noticeable increase in the public’s demand for basic necessities and food products following the assassination attempt on Hamas leader Ismail Haniyeh.
- Ice Cream Sales:Ice cream sales increased by a record 260% during this period.
- Canned Goods:After ice cream, the most demanded products included canned foods such as tuna, corn and pickles, with a 140% increase.
- Restaurant Preferences:Israelis have been avoiding restaurants and cafes lately. For example, a famous restaurant in Tel Aviv saw its weekend bookings drop by 50%.
- Pizza Orders:On the other hand, pizza restaurants have seen a huge increase in orders, reaching up to 40% over the weekend. This is due to people preferring to eat at home rather than out.
Another notable development was the increase in demand for alcoholic beverages by anxious Israelis. A bar owner in the city of Rishon Lezion said his bar patrons were drinking more to relieve their anxiety.
There has also been a significant increase in the search for psychological support. It has become increasingly difficult to get an appointment with a psychologist or psychiatrist in recent days. The average cost of a session has risen to 450 shekels (about $122.5). One psychologist said that the demand for counseling services has increased “crazy” and psychologists are forced to work long hours.
In addition, there has been a reported 30% increase in demand for sleeping pills and tranquilizers. Meanwhile, thousands of Israelis have been stranded abroad due to the suspension of flights to Tel Aviv by many international airlines. On the other hand, some airlines, such as Corendon Europe, have resumed flights, prompting many Israelis to make reservations to travel abroad.
This anxious atmosphere has led to tensions not only in domestic consumption but also in national security issues. One of Hezbollah’s top commanders, Fuad Shukur, was killed in an airstrike in Beirut on July 30. similarly, Hamas Political Bureau Chairman Ismail Haniyeh was assassinated in Tehran, the capital of Iran, on July 31. The Tel Aviv administration announced that it expected strong retaliation from Hezbollah and Iran following these events.
