The defense establishment is considering to once again allow Palestinian workers from the Gaza Strip entry into Israel
within the overall framework of humanitarian relief for the Palestinians.
Deputy Defense Minister Ephraim Sneh, who toured Sunday the border crossings in the Gaza Strip, told Ynet that the issue will definitely be on the agenda at a later stage of the relief program.
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"This isn't just easing up, but an entire plan that alongside our war with Hamas and terrorism through military means, we are also taking economic and policy steps," Sneh said.
Since March 2006, worker from the Gaza Strip looking to cross into Israel through Erez crossing in the northern Gaza Strip have been banned entry. Terror warnings and attacks on the site and the ascendance of Hamas brought about the closure of the main thoroughfare between the Gaza Strip and Israel. In the past, some 10,000 workers would cross into Israel through Erez Crossing every day.
Ephraim Sneh touring Karni Crossing (Photo: Ori Miller)
However, the crossing has been upgraded and will be opened on January 19. In accordance, the defense establishment is considering to grant entry into Israel to Palestinian workers. According to Sneh, this step will be undertaken gradually.
Sneh started his tour in the joint operations room that overseas the goings-on at the crossing. He was briefed by the Israeli and international representatives stationed at the post. Israel today doesn't have direct control of those entering and exiting Rafah crossing.
"There is an operation here that is carried out according to the arranged protocols, and this is in practice the first time we agreed to bring in a third side. They carry out their tasks dutifully, but obviously this isn't the most optimal situation. If there were 20 Shin Bet officials here, I would sleep better," said Sneh.
Sneh virulently attacked the terror organizations, who amass strength as long as the crossings are closed.
"Whoever asks himself why the terrorist organizations are trying to target this spot and blow it up can understand that why they want is to create a sense of desperation, hunger, and any other negative sensation amongst the Palestinian population.
"The terrorist organizations aren't damaging these crossings expense-free. It is very easy to hermetically seal off Gaza, but then there will be a pressure cooker here that could blow up in our faces," Sneh said.
Last week, Israel started easing up on the Palestinians and removed 16 roadblocks in the West Bank, and applied a number of simplifying measures at the merchandise crossing.
The deputy defense minister said, "There is great importance in improving the Palestinians' economy. All of this lessens the influence of terrorism, and this is what we are aiming for."
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