Israeli army recommends measures to ease Gaza blockade

Senior Israeli army officers are recommending measures to ease restrictions imposed by the blockade on the Gaza Strip, according to reports today.

Unnamed military officials cited in the Israeli media on Wednesday, believe that such concessions are key to securing a longer-term ceasefire.

According to Haaretz, the recommendations include allowing “thousands of Palestinians to travel abroad by entering Israel via the Erez crossing and leaving the country to Jordan via the Allenby Bridge”, as well as permitting “merchandise into Gaza through the Karni crossing.”

In addition, “permits would be issued for Palestinians from the Gaza Strip to work in Israeli communities near the border.”

There is, however, uncertainly whether there is the political will required to implement such steps.

Officials cited in Haaretz and The Jerusalem Post suggest that easing economic restrictions and some limitations on the passage of people and goods could “help achieve relatively long-term quiet”, as well as “reducing international criticism of Israel.”

The military sources noted that Hamas is observing the ceasefire and trying to prevent smaller groups from firing rockets. An anonymous officer described Hamas as “deterred, restrained and restraining.”