Gaza Cola Launched to Fund Hospital Reconstruction

Osama Qashoo, a Palestinian activist and filmmaker, has launched Gaza Cola, an alternative to Coca-Cola, to fund the reconstruction of al Karama Hospital in northern Gaza, which has been devastated by Israeli airstrikes. The initiative stems from Qashoo's commitment to Palestinian rights, and he aims to channel profits from the beverage, which features the Palestinian flag and keffiyeh design, towards rebuilding efforts. Although he cannot specify the costs or timeline for the hospital's reconstruction, he emphasizes the need for imagination and hope in the face of destruction. Gaza Cola has gained popularity since its November 2023 launch, selling over 500,000 units globally, despite logistical challenges preventing distribution to Gaza. Qashoo's broader message is aimed at multinational corporations involved in the arms trade, urging them to reconsider their investments and their impacts on conflict-affected communities. The United Nations has warned of a total collapse of Gaza's healthcare system as the region continues to face dire circumstances.