Israel to Allow Construction Materials into Gaza Amid US Pressure

Israel is preparing to allow the entry of "dual-use" construction materials, including cement and iron, into the Gaza Strip for urgent infrastructure repairs, according to a Channel 12 report. This decision follows significant pressure from the U.S. administration, which intensified due to severe flooding in displacement camps caused by recent heavy rains.

The materials slated for entry also include steel and large-diameter pipes. Previously, Israel had severely restricted or blocked these items due to concerns they could be used by Hamas to rebuild tunnels and fortifications. Security officials are now developing special monitoring mechanisms to ensure the materials are used solely for civilian infrastructure and do not reach Hamas.

This move comes despite Hamas not disarming or taking steps toward disarmament, a condition Israel had previously set for extensive reconstruction in Gaza. Concurrently, Israel continues to permit the entry of essential humanitarian aid, such as sewage trucks, winter supplies, food, and medicine.

The decision marks a significant shift in policy, prompted by the dire humanitarian situation exacerbated by the first winter rains. Palestinian reports indicate approximately 70,000 tents were flooded, affecting displaced families. Gaza's civil defense services received around 1,500 distress calls.

Separately, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, Maj. Gen. Yoram Levy, informed international bodies last week that private sector traders would halt coordinating goods entry into Gaza due to Hamas's extortionate taxation and threats against those who refuse to comply. Hamas reportedly demands about 10,000 shekels per truck of goods entering the Strip.