Israel Reopens Kerem Shalom Crossing for Goods but Keeps Erez Closed for Pedestrians

Israel’s Defense Minister Yoav Gallant announced Tuesday the reopening of the Kerem Shalom crossing for goods and fuel to the Gaza Strip, while keeping the Erez pedestrian crossing closed. The decision to continue the closure of Erez was prompted by ongoing violent protests near Gaza’s eastern border, organized by Hamas, according to a statement by the Israel Defense Forces. The protests have barred an estimated 15,000 Gazan workers from entering Israel.

Last week, Israeli authorities had stated that the Erez border crossing would stay closed due to escalating tensions and demonstrations near the border fence. Initially closed on September 15 for security measures around the Jewish New Year, it was slated to reopen the following Monday but remained shut because of heightened security risks.

Israeli police are maintaining extra vigilance following a 15% spike in attack warnings during the Jewish holiday season. Police deployment will especially be robust in Jerusalem’s Old City and popular leisure spots nationwide until after the Sukkot holiday week.