BICOM

Israel allowed truckloads of construction materials into Gaza yesterday to allow for the construction of ten privately owned factories. In the past, only international projects were allowed to import building materials, which Israel restricts due to its concern that Hamas, the ruling power in Gaza, will use them for military purposes. The factories that will be rebuilt were damaged during Operation Cast Lead in 2009. Several dozen trucks will also be allowed in to assist with the project.

In Gaza, Palestinian government co-ordinator Raed Fattouh said the coming weeks would also see the export of agricultural goods and Gaza-made furniture in exceptions to the blockade. Permission was negotiated with Israel and international mediators. Israel significantly eased limits on imports last year but kept certain building materials on its list of restrictions.