Israel Matzav

Stupid Jews to allow exports from Gaza despite terror activity

A senior IDF officer told Italian Foreign Minister Franco Frattini this week that Israel plans to let Gaza exports be shipped through Israeli crossings starting in mid-2011 despite the fact that it will bring the Hamas government more money for purchasing weapons and ammunition, and despite the fact that Gilad Shalit remains a hostage in Gaza (Hat Tip: Shy Guy).

Israel has already begun to prepare for resumed exports from Gaza, Dangot said. Work is being done at the Kerem Shalom crossing to increase its capacity.

Some exports have already begun. Israel is already allowing flowers and strawberries to be exported via Israel.

Dangot reported that Israel has significantly relaxed its policy on imports to Gaza as well. While Israel initially allowed only humanitarian aid to enter the region from Israel following the Hamas takeover, today approximately 250 trucks enter the region every day bearing a wide variety of goods, and everything but weapons and dual-purpose goods is allowed through.

As the work at Kerem Shalom progresses, imports are expected to rise further, and by early 2011 an estimated 400 trucks will deliver goods to Gaza daily, he said.

Frattini was shown a live video feed of activity at Kerem Shalom, where workers were busy checking goods entering Gaza. He and Dangot also discussed projects taking place in Gaza in the fields of housing and education.

While the world has focused primarily on Israel's Gaza policy, the region also shares a border with Egypt. Egyptian authorities have also relaxed their policy regarding Hamas-run Gaza recently, allowing Gaza residents to exit via Egypt's Rafiah crossing and allowing foreign activists bringing goods to enter.

What could go wrong?

Labels: Eitan Dangot, exports, Franco Frattini, Gaza plenty, Israeli crossing points

posted by Carl in Jerusalem @ 6:31 PM