Update on Continued Closure of Gaza Crossings

UN Humanitarian Monitor Occupied Palestinian Territory- September 2007
Access and Crossings
Rafah and Karni crossings remain closed after more than threemonths. The movement of goods via Gaza border crossings significantly declined in September compared to previous months. The average of 106 truckloads per day that was recorded between 19 June and 13 September has dropped to approximately 50 truckloads per day since mid-September. Sufa crossing (usually opened 5 days a week) was closed for 16 days in September, including 8 days for Israeli holidays, while Kerem Shalom was open only 14 days throughout the month. The Israeli Civil Liaison Administration reported that the reduction of working hours was due to the Muslim holy month of Ramadan, Jewish holidays and more importantly attacks on the crossings by Palestinian militants from inside Gaza.
Impact of Closure
As a result of the increased restrictions on Gaza border crossings, an increasing number of food items – including fruits, fresh meat and fish, frozen meat, frozen vegetables, chicken, powdered milk, dairy products, beverages and cooking oil – are experiencing shortages on the local market. The World Food Programme (WFP) has also reported significant increases in the costs of these items, due to increases in prices on the global market as well as due to restrictions on goods going into Gaza. In September, the price of one kg of fresh meat increased by 25%, while the price of chicken experienced a 50% increase.

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