Misbar’s Analysis
Gaza's crossings enable residents within the territory to travel to areas controlled by Israeli authorities or to the outside world amid the current blockade on the Gaza Strip. However, these crossings often face closures, and citizens frequently encounter violations when attempting to pass through them.
How Many Border Crossings Are in Gaza?
Upon investigation, it is clear that there are six crossings in Gaza: Erez, al-Awdah, Shuja'iya, Beit Hanoun, Kerem Shalom, and Rafah. However, Israeli authorities have permanently closed one of the crossings. Most of these crossings are controlled by the Israeli occupation, which presents numerous difficulties for Gaza residents seeking to travel to other parts of occupied Palestine.
Do All Gaza Border Crossings Pass through Israeli-Controlled Territory?
Yes, all Gaza border crossings do pass through Israeli-controlled territory. The exception is Rafah Crossing, which connects Gaza with the Arab Republic of Egypt. It serves as the sole crossing residents can use to travel directly outside Palestinian territories without passing through areas under Israeli occupation.
What Is the Significance of Kerem Shalom Crossing in Gaza?
Despite multiple entry and exit points in Gaza, Kerem Shalom Crossing was specifically designated among them for transporting goods from occupied Palestinian territories into Gaza. Currently closed, this crossing began operations in 2005 under Israeli authority primarily for humanitarian aid transport to the Gaza Strip, later becoming a major hub for goods. Israeli authorities restricted Kerem Shalom Crossing primarily to goods transport, serving as a vital artery for Gaza residents.
Key details about Kerem Shalom Crossing include:
- Start of operations: Israeli authorities began operating Kerem Shalom Crossing in 2005 initially for transporting humanitarian aid to Gaza, but it later became a major hub for goods transport.
- Goods-only designation: Israeli authorities did not generally allow individuals to pass through Kerem Shalom Crossing; instead, it was exclusively designated for goods transport, making it a lifeline for Gaza residents.
- Percentage of goods entering: Approximately 80% of goods produced by institutions and companies within Israeli territories entered Gaza through Kerem Shalom Crossing in the past.
- High fees: Israeli authorities imposed fees ranging from 250 to 700 shekels for each truck passing through Kerem Shalom Crossing, in addition to weighing fees, shipping charges, and other fees.
How Can Fuel Enter Gaza?
Fuel can be transported into Gaza via dedicated trucks through the Erez Crossing. Israeli authorities allow fuel to enter Gaza from Palestinian territories without permitting any other goods to pass through. It is important to note that this transport includes natural gas through this crossing.
What Are the Names of Gaza’s Crossings?
When examining Gaza's crossing map, their names reflect the regions where they are situated. The following list provides the names of the crossings along with pertinent details based on research:
The al-Muntar Crossing: Controlled by Israeli authorities and also known as Karni Crossing, it serves as the primary hub for transporting goods and conducting commercial activities in Gaza, operating at 20% capacity daily.
The al-Awdah Crossing: Referred to as Sofa Crossing by Israeli authorities, it is located in southern Gaza and primarily designated for grain trade.
Shuja'iya Crossing: Situated in eastern Gaza, it is designated for transporting fuel and natural gas, fully controlled by Israeli authorities and known as Nahal Oz Crossing.
Beit Hanoun Crossing: Located in northern Gaza, under Israeli control and known as Erez Crossing, it is primarily used for Palestinian workers commuting to Israeli territories.
Kerem Shalom Crossing: Initially used for both imports and exports, it is currently closed and referred to as Kerem Shalom Crossing by Israeli authorities.
Rafah Crossing: Positioned in southern Gaza, it is the sole land crossing not under Israeli control, featuring separate sections for individuals and goods.
What Is the Situation With Gaza Crossings in 2023?
The status of Gaza crossings in 2023 underwent significant changes due to the outbreak of the war dubbed "Operation Al-Aqsa Flood" by resistance factions, while the Israeli military termed it "Iron Swords." All crossings under Israeli control were closed, and the occupation even bombed the entrance gate of Rafah Crossing, which is not under its control, to prevent aid from entering Gaza in any form.
When Did Rafah Crossing Reopen After Operation Al-Aqsa Flood?
Despite the closure of all Gaza crossings at the onset of the Operation Al-Aqsa Flood and the threat to block aid through Rafah Crossing, actual aid deliveries began via Rafah on October 21, 2023, as reported by the Palestinian News and Information Agency. Some trucks were allowed by the Israeli occupation to enter to provide necessary assistance for Gaza's residents.
However, the Israeli authorities have not permitted sufficient aid necessary for hospitals and essential sectors in Gaza up to now, with only a very limited number of trucks passing through compared to the actual needs.
Are There Negative Impacts of the Closure of Gaza Crossings?
The closure of Gaza crossings and the restrictions imposed by Israeli authorities have undoubtedly led to many negative consequences. Here are some of the most significant impacts:
Deterioration of the healthcare sector: The closure of Gaza crossings following the October 2023 Operation Al-Aqsa Flood has severely worsened the healthcare situation, officially leading to the collapse of Gaza's health system.
Electricity shortages: Many vital sectors, including electricity, rely on fuel and natural gas. With trucks barred from entering Gaza through the crossings, the supply of essential electricity to residents is disrupted.
Economic decline: Gaza residents are unable to sell their exports abroad, and traders face obstacles in importing goods due to the closures. This situation has contributed to an economic downturn in the region.
Difficulty in accessing basic necessities: The closure of crossings has halted trade in food and essential goods for Gaza residents, significantly reducing their availability and accessibility.
Restrictions on movement to and from Gaza: Due to the complete closure of crossings, Gaza residents cannot leave the territory, and individuals outside Gaza are unable to return, further restricting movement.
Are Gaza’s Maritime Borders Extensive?
According to the Oslo Accords signed with Israel, Gaza's maritime borders span 19.31 kilometers. However, Israeli authorities restrict fishermen from venturing more than 6.44 kilometers into Gaza's shores, as reported by the Palestinian Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This indicates that Gaza's maritime borders are limited rather than extensive.
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