Israel Halts Aid Shipments After Foiled Nicotine Smuggling to Gaza

Israeli authorities have uncovered a sophisticated attempt to smuggle approximately 100 liters of liquid nicotine into the Gaza Strip, disguised as humanitarian aid. The substance was found hidden within regular beverage bottles on a truck belonging to an Israeli company, which was attempting to deliver the shipment through the Kerem Shalom crossing.

During a thorough security inspection conducted by the Land Crossing Authority in coordination with the Gaza Coordination and Liaison Administration, the illicit cargo was discovered. The truck and its contents were confiscated and handed over to customs and law enforcement for further processing.

In response to the incident, Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) Major General Yoram Levy immediately suspended the company's authorization to deliver aid to Gaza until further notice. This action reflects a policy of zero tolerance for the exploitation of aid mechanisms for prohibited purposes.

This foiled smuggling attempt follows a pattern of similar incidents. In February 2026, hundreds of kilograms of tobacco were seized hidden in grape leaf cans, also from an authorized Israeli company, leading to a similar suspension of its permit. In March, nicotine bottles were found concealed within hygiene kits belonging to an international agency.

Liquid nicotine is a valuable commodity in Gaza due to the scarcity and high price of cigarettes and tobacco, potentially fueling a black market and generating funds for militant organizations. Authorities emphasize that all smuggling attempts, regardless of size, will be dealt with severely, and permits will be revoked upon discovery of violations. The Kerem Shalom crossing continues its operations with heightened vigilance.