DayofPal– A new investigation conducted by the Israeli Haaretz newspaper has revealed that Israeli army invading Gaza is allowing armed tribal gangs to systematically block and extort aid trucks entering the Gaza Strip through the Karem Abu Salem crossing.
International aid organizations working in Gaza revealed to Haaretz that armed gangs, tied to two influential families in Rafah, have been obstructing a large number of aid convoys at Israeli army orders.
These groups often set up impromptu roadblocks or shoot at the tires of incoming trucks. In exchange for safe passage, they demand “protection money”—a hefty sum of 15,000 shekels (roughly $3,800) from drivers.
Drivers who refuse to pay face the threat of abduction or having their trucks seized, with the valuable aid cargo frequently looted.
The aid organizations also reported that some drivers, desperate to ensure vital supplies like food and medical equipment reach those in need, feel compelled to give in to these extortion demands.
However, when drivers refuse to pay, the shipments are often left stranded in warehouses under Israeli control, unable to reach their intended destinations.
Observers believe that Israeli government led by Netanyahu, since the inset of Gaza war, has pushed forward implementing plans that seek to create chaos and break down the security within the Gaza Strip.
To achieve this objective, the Israeli occupation army has executed a plan to dismantle Gaza’s security apparatus by targeting police leaders, officers, and personnel who are responsible for maintaining public safety and protecting the home front, according to the Ministry of Interior.
The attacks have also targeted police officers escorting trucks delivering food and medical aid to Gaza, which demonstrates Israel’s intention to create conditions that encourage looting and theft, further fueling instability.
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