Hamas Blocks Gaza Reconstruction and Controls Merchants, Officials Warn
Hamas is actively blocking reconstruction plans in Gaza by preventing 3,000 approved workers from entering the Green Rafah humanitarian zone, defying international efforts.
Hamas is tightening its grip on merchants and the local economy, actively obstructing reconstruction plans in the Gaza Strip. Despite Shin Bet approval for 3,000 Gazan workers to enter the cleared "Green Rafah" humanitarian zone, Hamas is blocking their passage.
Obstruction of Humanitarian Projects
According to security sources, the Shin Bet initially opposed allowing workers from Gaza into the project area but relented following pressure from the Peace Council. However, Hamas intervention is now preventing the implementation of the humanitarian initiative designed to provide shelter and services for displaced civilians.
Hamas remains the core obstacle to any rehabilitation in the Gaza Strip, systematically undermining civilian relief efforts and extorting local merchants.
Supply Chain Interference
This development follows a warning letter sent earlier this week by Maj. Gen. (Res.) Yoram Halevi to Peace Council CEO Nickolay Mladenov. Halevi warned of Hamas taking over humanitarian aid distribution and imposing heavy taxes on merchants. Meanwhile, both Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and opposition figure Gadi Eisenkot have reiterated their commitment to dismantling Hamas entirely.
