Israel Resumes Gaza Commercial Goods Imports After Hamas Tax Lifted
Translated & summarized from NEWSru Israel by baba
Israel has resumed commercial goods imports into the Gaza Strip after Hamas reportedly canceled a 10,000 shekel tax per truck. The suspension was initiated by Israel due to the tax, which Hamas claimed was a voluntary donation. Israel suspects the funds were used for military purposes and will monitor payments closely upon resumption.
The story in 5 lines · by baba
- Israel resumed commercial imports to Gaza after Hamas reportedly canceled a 10,000 shekel tax per truck.
- The tax imposition by Hamas had led to a several-day suspension of goods entering Gaza.
- COGAT stated Israel is fulfilling humanitarian commitments under the ceasefire agreement.
- Israel will enforce strict monitoring of payments via documented bank transfers.
- Hamas claimed the funds were voluntary donations, while Israel believes they funded terrorism.
Israel has agreed to resume permits for commercial goods entering the Gaza Strip after a several-day suspension. The halt was triggered by a "tax" of 10,000 shekels per truck imposed by Hamas. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT), the Israeli military body responsible for humanitarian affairs in Gaza, announced the decision after merchants reported that Hamas authorities had rescinded the demand. "The resumption of coordination is in line with Israel's commitment to fulfill the humanitarian provisions of the ceasefire agreement," COGAT stated. However, COGAT noted that the merchants' reports had not been independently verified.
Imports will be reinstated gradually, with priority given to essential goods in anticipation of winter. Israel will implement stricter controls to ensure all payments are made and received exclusively through documented bank transfers. Any merchant found to be making payments to Hamas will be removed from the system.
Hamas representatives claimed the 10,000 shekel collection was a "voluntary contribution" from wealthier Gaza residents to a national fund for the needy. Israel, however, asserts that Hamas uses the collected funds to rebuild its weaponry, finance terrorists, and attempt to restore its control over Gaza.
