Palestinian activist launches ‘genocide-free’ cola against Israeli backers in UK
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In a bid to raise awareness about the ongoing Palestinian struggle and encourage a global boycott of companies supporting Israel, Osama Qashoo, a Palestinian activist and restaurateur, has launched Cola Gaza, a beverage that combines a message of resistance with a refreshing taste.
The drink, which Qashoo developed in late 2023, is available in his London-based restaurants and online, with profits directed towards rebuilding the maternity ward of al-Karama Hospital in Gaza, Al Jazeera reported.
Qashoo, known for his activism and involvement in movements like the Boycott, Divestment, and Sanctions (BDS) campaign, created Cola Gaza as part of a broader effort to promote economic independence for Palestinians. He says the beverage was born out of a desire to provide a ‘guilt-free’ and ‘genocide-free’ alternative to major cola brands that support Israeli military actions.
Cola Gaza is produced in Poland and imported to the UK, where it has already sold 500,000 cans since its introduction in August 2024.
The drink, designed with the colours and iconography of the Palestinian flag, has garnered attention for both its unique flavour and its political stance. It has become a symbol of resistance for many, particularly among Palestinians and their supporters.
Retailers such as Al Aqsa in Manchester have reported strong sales, and Cola Gaza is also sold online, priced higher than mainstream colas, with the additional revenue supporting humanitarian efforts in Gaza.
Qashoo's campaign is not the only one challenging the dominance of cola giants like Coca-Cola, which operates in Israel. Other alternatives, such as Palestine Drinks and Matrix Cola, are also gaining traction, with consumers choosing products that align with their political beliefs. These boycotts, experts say, aim to raise awareness of corporate complicity in human rights abuses rather than achieving immediate change.
Despite challenges in finding distributors due to political barriers, Qashoo remains resolute. He continues to refine the drink, with plans for an even fizzier version in the works. Through Cola Gaza, he hopes to keep the conversation about Palestine alive, using a product as a simple yet potent reminder of the ongoing hardships faced by the Palestinian people.