Kashmiri shopkeepers boycott Israeli-labeled dates to support Palestine

Businesses across Kashmir choose alternatives to show support for Palestine

SRINAGAR, Kashmir (MNTV) – Kashmiri shopkeepers have decided to boycott dates that are cultivated in occupied Palestine but sold under the “Israeli dates” label. 

By rejecting these products, they are taking a stand against Israel’s exploitation of Palestinian resources and its oppression of the Palestinian people.

The protest, aimed at opposing Israel’s occupation and oppression of Palestinians, has led businesses to stock dates from Saudi Arabia, Iran, Morocco, and Algeria instead. 

Across the valley, the move has resonated with both traders and consumers, Kashmir Times reported.

This act of solidarity has added a new layer of meaning to Ramadan in Kashmir, where the holy month is traditionally marked by devotion, charity, and communal warmth.

The boycott began quietly in Srinagar’s old markets, as traders noticed a growing shift in consumer preferences. 

Once a popular choice, Israeli-branded dates — grown on occupied palestinian land, seized by Israel, and repackaged for global sale— have now largely disappeared from shelves, replaced by premium varieties like Kalmi, Mabroom, Ajwa, and Majdool.

“We cannot solve Palestine’s problems directly, but we can do this much,” said a Lal Chowk shopkeeper. “By rejecting Israeli products, we stand with those who suffer.”

For shop owners like Umar Mehraj of Maharaja Bazar, the plight of Palestinians is deeply personal. 

“Hearing about the suffering of Palestinian children is heartbreaking,” he said. 

“We may feel powerless, but small acts of resistance matter,” he added.

Umar has vowed never to sell Israeli-branded dates again. 

“Every act of justice counts. If people worldwide took even small steps, it could lead to meaningful change,” he explained.

Similarly, Ibrahim Beigh, owner of Dry N Delicious in Khanyar area of Srinagar, ensures his stock is free of Israeli goods. 

“I source 95% of my dates from Saudi Arabia, Iran, and other Middle Eastern countries, with the rest coming from Morocco,” he said.

Ibrahim emphasized that solidarity extends beyond boycotts. 

“We must support Palestine through donations and aid. Every contribution matters,” he noted.

He also criticized how Israeli-branded dates dominate global markets, often grown on occupied Palestinian land and mislabeled for export.

For Kashmiris, the Palestinian cause feels familiar. 

“We see our own struggles reflected in theirs,” said a Kashmiri elder.

From small kiosks to bustling bazaars, the boycott has become a quiet assertion of moral responsibility. 

“In times of adversity, solidarity shines brightest,” said a shopkeeper in Rajouri Kadal.

As Ramadan continues, Kashmiri shopkeepers remain resolute in their boycott—delivering a powerful message of unity and resistance.