Updated: 10 августа, 2026 8:04 пп
The Arabic-language spokesperson for the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), Ella Waweya, addressed the residents of Gaza, warning that old-series shekel banknotes will soon be completely withdrawn from circulation.
According to Waweya, the majority of these banknotes have already been replaced with new ones. Therefore, individuals holding onto old banknotes could face the risk of losing their money.
The IDF statement noted that Hamas leadership is aware of the situation and is trying to get rid of the old banknotes in its possession. According to claims by the Israeli military, the organization’s leadership is keeping the new banknotes for itself while settling accounts with ordinary Gaza residents and fighters using old money scheduled to be phased out.
“Do not agree to receive salaries or payments in old banknotes. Do not let the Hamas leadership place the consequences of their losses on you,” Waweya stated.
The cash circulation situation in Gaza has previously drawn the attention of regulatory bodies. A proposal was submitted to the Bank of Israel to cancel 200-shekel banknotes circulating in the Gaza Strip.
Against this backdrop, it is reported that approximately 5 billion shekels have already been removed from financial circulation following reports that 200-shekel banknotes would be withdrawn from circulation.
Additionally, a sharp increase in the number of counterfeit 100-shekel banknotes in the market has been recorded in recent weeks.
