Israel reiterates Gazan traders suspended coordination for goods shipment due to Hamas threats

Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) reiterated that Gazan traders suspended coordination for the shipment of goods due to threats from Hamas. The statement came in response to reports from Hamas, which had claimed Israel was responsible for the suspension. COGAT clarified that the decision was made by private sector traders, who cited Hamas’ forced tax enforcement and threats against those who refused to comply.

Traders informed COGAT that Hamas demands approximately 10,000 shekels (over $3,200) per truck carrying goods to Gaza and requires them to sell about 30% of their goods in cash. This is part of Hamas’ effort to control profits. The coordinator noted that these demands, combined with threats and pressure, led traders to suspend coordination activities out of fear for their lives and physical safety.

One incident highlighted by COGAT involved the arrest of the son of a merchant by Hamas security personnel after his father refused to comply with the organization’s tax requirements. The merchant’s son was transferred to Abbas prison, further intensifying the traders’ fears and contributing to the suspension of operations.

COGAT emphasized that humanitarian aid continues to enter Gaza through the United Nations, international organizations, and donor countries. According to assessments by COGAT, based on UN reports and expert analyses, the volume of aid through these channels is sufficient to meet the needs of the Gaza population, even without private sector involvement.

In separate developments, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) and Shin Bet (Israel Security Agency) announced the killing of two individuals in Khan Younis. They were identified as Basel Nabil Abd Al-Rahman Kashta and Ahmad Raja Al-Shaer, who were allegedly involved in smuggling weapons into Gaza. The operation was conducted to neutralize an immediate threat to Israeli civilians and IDF troops operating near the “Yellow Line.”

These actions reflect the ongoing security challenges in the region, with both Hamas and Israeli authorities taking measures to address threats to civilian and military safety. The situation underscores the complex dynamics of conflict and the impact on daily life for those in Gaza. As the humanitarian and security situation continues to evolve, the international community remains closely watching the developments.

Source: Read the original report (translated from Spanish)