Israel Moves Gaza Return Checkpoint to Kerem Shalom After Smuggling Attempts
Israel's security apparatus has decided to relocate the "Regavim" checkpoint, established for the return of Gaza residents from Egypt, to the Kerem Shalom crossing. This decision follows the uncovering of multiple smuggling attempts at the original checkpoints set up under the resident return mechanism, as first reported by Kan News on Sunday morning.
The Rafah crossing was reopened in February as part of Israel's commitments under the ceasefire agreement, allowing limited movement of people only. Entry and exit are coordinated with Egypt, require Israeli security approval, and are supervised by the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM). Since reopening, approximately 4,500 Gaza residents have exited to Egypt, with about 4,200 returning. Returnees undergo thorough security checks against approved lists, including detailed inspection of their luggage to prevent smuggling of prohibited items into Gaza.
In recent months, Israeli security forces have intercepted unauthorized items such as cigarettes, tobacco, hookahs, electronic devices including mobile phones, SIM cards, USB drives, power banks, and other accessories. Following these findings, a joint task force comprising the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, the Southern Command, and the Ministry of Defense's Land Crossings Authority decided to transfer the Israeli checkpoint operations to Kerem Shalom. The Land Crossings Authority will conduct the inspections in cooperation with security forces.
Officials emphasize that this is an operational change aimed at enhancing inspection quality, improving the ability to prevent smuggling, and ensuring the safe and efficient continuation of the crossing mechanism. The movement procedure through Rafah remains unchanged, continuing under coordination with Egypt and the World Health Organization, with Israeli security approval and EU supervision.
Separately, related reports discuss Hamas's strategy to delay concessions to Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu and the U.S. demands regarding Gaza's reconstruction without dismantling Hamas.
