Israel tightens Gaza blockade, civilians bear the brunt

In July 2018, the Government of Israel tightened restrictions on goods and materials entering and leaving Gaza, noting that the measures were in response to Hamas sending incendiary kites and balloons into Israel. All goods were banned from exiting and many vital materials banned from entering.

These restrictions further tighten the blockade – in place for 12 years – which severely limits or prevents the entry and exit of materials to Gaza for both humanitarian and development projects. Over half the population of Gaza lives under the poverty line, and one million Palestinians in Gaza don’t have enough food to feed their families.

This joint agency briefing calls for:

• An immediate end to the blockade and opening crossings into and out of Gaza
• All parties to refrain from using civilians in Gaza as leverage for political gain
• The UN and the international community to support the lifting of restrictions and a long-term strategy for economic development in Gaza.