Israeli Authorities Foil Cigarette Smuggling Attempt Into Gaza Hidden in Pineapples

On July 8, 2026, Israeli security officials intercepted an attempt to smuggle thousands of cigarettes into the Gaza Strip concealed inside hundreds of pineapples at the Kerem Shalom crossing. The shipment, carried by a truck approved to deliver humanitarian aid, was discovered by the security screening team of the Crossings Authority under the Ministry of Defense at the Lachish crossing. The cigarettes were hidden within the fruit, and the entire truckload was confiscated and handed over to customs and other relevant authorities for further processing.

Following the incident, the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories, Major General Yoram Halevi, immediately ordered the suspension of the company's authorization to deliver aid to Gaza until further notice. The company had been authorized under the private sector humanitarian aid mechanism to bring supplies through the Kerem Shalom crossing.

Officials emphasized their commitment to maintaining strict vigilance and zero tolerance toward any smuggling attempts or misuse of humanitarian aid channels. The Crossings Authority, customs, and all relevant security agencies will continue coordinated efforts to prevent such violations and ensure the integrity of aid deliveries to Gaza.