JERUSALEM (JTA) — Activists from the kibbutz movement blocked a Gaza border crossing to prevent the transfer of millions of shekels to the Palestinians.
The protesters gathered at the Erez border crossing on Thursday and blocked the way with bulldozers. They said they were blocking the transfer of money because kidnapped Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit, who reportedly is being held in Gaza, has not been returned home.
The money was ordered delivered to the Gaza Strip by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu on Wednesday in order to pay Palestinian Authority workers’ salaries. The $12 million belongs to the Palestinian Authority. Critics believe the terrorist Hamas organization, which controls the coastal strip, will benefit from the money.
As the Year Turns, Support the Journalism You Trust. JTA covers the stories shaping Jewish life around the world — with the depth this moment calls for. As you reflect on the year ahead, consider a gift that keeps independent Jewish journalism strong.
