The Shin Bet made a significant announcement on Wednesday, revealing the details of a smuggling operation involving explosives at the Kerem Shalom crossing earlier this month. The operation, which led to the seizure of standard C4 explosives and 10 additional explosive devices concealed within a shipment of international brand clothing, has been traced back to the direction of Hamas in the Gaza Strip. What makes this revelation even more concerning is the involvement of two individuals, Arafat Natsha and Muhammad Abu Awad, both of whom were previously released in the Gilad Shalit deal of 2009.
Natsha, hailing from Hebron, and Abu Awad, a resident of Nablus, potentially signify a deeper connection to the "West Bank headquarters" of Hamas. This faction consists of individuals who were freed as part of the Shalit deal, many of whom were originally from Judea and Samaria but were subsequently deported to Gaza or other locations. The seized explosive materials are of grave concern, as they could potentially be used to carry out deadly attacks.
Well, it's finished and looking very snazzy...
ā Imshin (@imshin) September 20, 2023
Nothing says "Welcome to Gaza" like a giant fist! š#TheGazaYouDontSee https://t.co/FR1EuDv3Fy https://t.co/Wu79eQFrii pic.twitter.com/YuOnq2lzhU
The investigation into this incident has shed light on the logistics of the smuggling operation. The shipment arrived at the Kerem Shalom crossing through a transportation company known as "Alkadasia," which regularly transports goods from Gaza. Additionally, a Gaza resident named May Manzoor has been identified in connection with the incident.
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ā ×× news (@1717Bazz) September 19, 2023
A source within Israeli security expressed their concerns about the situation, stating, "The cynical exploitation of Hamas operatives in the transportation of goods from the Gaza Strip directly impacts the daily lives of residents in both Gaza and Judea and Samaria. These citizens are paying a heavy and immediate price, including the closure of the crossing, economic damage, and increased difficulties in obtaining approvals for future goods."
Following the discovery of explosives in the shipment, Israel took decisive action by suspending the transfer of goods from the Gaza Strip to Israel. This decision was made by Chief of Staff Major General Herzi Halevi, with the approval of Defense Minister Yoav Galant. The return to normal operations will be based on ongoing situation assessments.
East of Khan Yunis, Gaza Strip: Palestinians send incendiary balloons into Israel pic.twitter.com/BfSV58j61W
ā Adam Albilya - ××× ××××××× (@AdamAlbilya) September 20, 2023
Furthermore, the Israeli authorities closed the Erez crossing in the Gaza Strip. This move, authorized by Defense Minister Yoav Galant and Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi, follows weeks of violent riots along the border. These protests, characterized by their inherent violence and the use of grenades and other weapons, receive substantial funding and support from local Hamas authorities.
