Blindfolded: Gaza returnees complain about harassment when crossing the border

The 70-year-old Um Ahmed told the German Press Agency that Israeli soldiers had stopped those entering the country Blindfolded. They also made threats during questioning. You and other affected people, including older and sick people, would also have wait for hours must.

Another affected woman said soldiers took belongings from the travelers, including the toy of a child who was crying because of it. The Palestinian woman from the city of Gaza said she was afraid of being arrested or turned away. Another Palestinian woman said crossing the border from Egypt into the Gaza Strip felt like a punishment rather than a regular procedure.

Israel: No incidents of inappropriate behavior reported

The Israeli army said: “Contrary to claims to the contrary, there are no known incidents of inappropriate behavior, ill-treatment, arrests or confiscation of property by Israeli security forces during security checks at the Israeli border crossing for Gazans entering the Gaza Strip from Egypt.” Baggage regulations and procedures had been communicated to travelers in advance.

Palestinians: 52 people entered via Rafah and 71 people left

The important border crossing, which is the only one that does not cross Israeli territory, was reopened to limited passenger traffic on Monday. The Hamas-controlled health authority said a total of 71 Palestinians had left the Gaza Strip in the first two days since the opening. According to the information, this includes 21 sick people who want to go abroad for medical treatment and 50 relatives who accompany them. At the same time, twelve Palestinians returned to the Gaza Strip on Monday and 40 people on Tuesday.

Entry and exit are carried out under the supervision and support of the EU mission on site (Eubam Rafah) and are only permitted in cases approved by the Israeli secret service.