Price rises due to Iran war dampen Eid in Pakistan
FI
Home Pakistan relies on Gulf fuel, but war-driven supply strain has raised prices and forced austerity Preparations for the end of Ramazan were in full swing at a beauty salon in Punjab, with customers getting haircuts, eyebrow-threading and henna tattoos. In Multan's markets, crowds of young and old women shopped for colourful bangles, shoes, new clothes, make-up and sweet treats. But in Multan and elsewhere in Pakistan, the ripple effects of the US-Israeli war against Iran were being felt. "It feels very different because inflation has risen so much due to the ongoing war. Every poor person is distressed. It is affecting them deeply," said make-up artist Rozina Amjad. The eve of Eidul Fitr used to be "lively", Amjad told AFP, adding: "Now that charm is gone. It's not like it used to be."
Published: March 19, 2026 3:48 pm
Source: The Express Tribune — Read original