RAFAH, June 8, 2015 (WAFA) – Israeli authorities Monday closed Gaza’s sole commercial crossing located southeast of Rafah; Karam Abu Salem Crossing, shortly after allowing the entry of material and aid into besieged Gaza in the early morning, which came following three days of closure.
Head of coordinating committee in charge of entry of goods in Gaza Raed fatooh told WAFA that the crossing terminal was opened in the morning hours to allow the entry of 620 truckloads of reconstruction material and aid before being closed by Israeli authorities.
To be noted, Gaza still suffers from the repercussions of the Israeli aggression which took place in the summer of 2014; the infrastructure along with thousands of homes were completely destroyed, displacing thousands of families who up until the moment live in caravans on the rubble of their homes.
Israel has maintained a blockade on the Gaza Strip since 2006, crippling the Gaza’s economy.
Arab and world countries pledged $5.4 billion to rebuild the damage that Israel has caused to the infrastructure of Gaza. Half of the money will be allocated to the reconstruction of Gaza, while the other half is allocated to support Palestinians needs.
Meanwhile, a joint statement from some 30 international aid agencies stated that, “Reconstruction and repairs to the tens of thousands of homes, hospitals, and schools damaged or destroyed in the fighting has been woefully slow.”
The statement said that, “Since July, the situation has deteriorated dramatically. Approximately 100,000 Palestinians remain displaced this winter, living in dire conditions in schools and makeshift shelters not designed for long-term stay.”
The center reported on the agencies stating that “the international community is not providing Gaza with adequate assistance. “Little of the $5.4 billion pledged in Cairo has reached Gaza. Cash assistance to families who lost everything has been suspended and other crucial aid is unavailable due to lack of funds.”
To be noted, the terminal crossing has been closed since Friday, a measure which Israel alleged came in response to a rocket that was fired from Gaza toward southern Israel.
T.R.
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