Security warnings prevent transfer of goods to Gaza

Israel did not transfer fuel or goods to the Gaza Strip on Thursday as planned after security warnings prevented the crossings from being opened, defense establishment sources said.

Also Thursday, it was decided that outgoing Gaza Division Commander Brigadier-General Moshe Tamir will remain in office until the situation in the Strip cools down, and that the swearing-in ceremony of Brigadier-General Eyal Eisenberg as Tamir's replacement would be postponed.

On Thursday morning the Israel Defense Forces planned to allow fuel into Gaza through the Nahal Oz terminal, and 30 trucks of goods through the Kerem Shalom crossing in accordance with Defense Minister Ehud Barak's instructions on Wednesday. However, following intelligence obtained by the defense establishment, it was decided not to open the crossings.

IDF soldiers on Gaza border (Photo: Tsafrir Abayov)

Barak consulted various defense officials on Wednesday and decided that the minimal amount of fuel would be transferred to the Strip on Thursday and that 30 trucks of international organizations carrying humanitarian supply (basic food, medications and medical equipment) would be allowed to cross into Gaza.

This decision followed a decision made Monday, in light of the international pressure on Israel. Barak instructed the defense establishment to look into the fuel supply issue on a daily basis.

The first decision to close the crossings was made following the resumption of the rocket fire directed at Israel, after the IDF operated within Gaza in a bid to destroy a "ticking tunnel".

The rocket fire continued Wednesday night, with five rockets landing in open areas in Gaza vicinity communities. There were no reports of injuries or damage.