Hamas ratchets down terror, Israel partially reopens border in response

Hamas’s decision to decrease terror has been reciprocated by Israel’s decision to partially reopen the Kerem Shalom Crossing to fuel. 

By: World Israel News Staff

Defense Minister Avigdor Liberman announced Tuesday that Israel would renew passage of fuel into Gaza Strip via the Kerem Shalom crossing after Hamas has reined in its own terrorists and those of smaller groups operating in Gaza.

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu called for the closure of the crossing for goods two weeks, and last week, Liberman announced the restriction on the entry of fuel and diesel into the Gaza Strip.

The rationale behind these steps was to put pressure on Hamas to stop launching bomb-laden kites and balloons into Israel, cease the firing of rockets and halt infiltration attempts by terrorists.

Gasoline and diesel fuel were allowed through the Kerem Shalom Crossing for the first time in over a week on Tuesday at noon, along with the food and medical supplies that have entered uninterrupted into Gaza daily since the crossing was closed, according to Liberman’s office.

According to a statement from the office Liberman’s decision to keep the crossing closed is the result of Hamas’s continued terrorist activities, though the terrorist organization has attempted to keep them at a low level.

The crossing will not be fully reopened again until Hamas stops all terrorist activities, Liberman’s office said.