Israel Moves Gaza Crossing Security Checks to Kerem Shalom to Prevent Smuggling

The Israeli security establishment has decided to relocate the "Regavim" security checkpoint from near the Rafah crossing to the Kerem Shalom crossing. This move aims to tighten inspections following multiple attempts to smuggle unauthorized goods into the Gaza Strip through the crossings used for residents returning from Egypt. The decision was reported on Sunday morning by Kan News during the "This Morning" program.

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 through Rafah are coordinated with Egypt, require Israeli security approval, and are supervised by an EU mission. Since reopening, approximately 4,500 Gaza residents have traveled to Egypt, and about 4,200 have returned to Gaza, all according to approved lists and subject to thorough security checks of their luggage to prevent smuggling.

Reports indicate that in recent months, several attempts to bring unauthorized items into Gaza were thwarted. Confiscated goods included cigarettes, tobacco, hookahs, electronic devices such as mobile phones, SIM cards, USB drives, portable chargers, and other accessories. Following these findings and a joint operational review by the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, the Southern Command, and the Ministry of Defense's Land Crossings Authority, the Israeli security checkpoint was moved to Kerem Shalom. The inspections there will be conducted by the Land Crossings Authority personnel in cooperation with security forces.