Israel Reopens West Bank Crossing to Jordan for Passenger Traffic Only
Israel has announced it will reopen the Allenby Crossing, the only crossing between the Israeli-occupied West Bank and Jordan, to passenger traffic only, starting Friday morning. This decision comes after a period of closure following a deadly attack on Israeli soldiers.
Background and Closure
The Allenby Crossing, also known as the Karama Crossing or King Hussein Bridge, was initially shut down last Friday after a Jordanian truck driver, transporting humanitarian aid from Jordan to Gaza, opened fire and killed two Israeli soldiers. The crossing briefly reopened on Monday before being closed indefinitely on Tuesday due to security concerns. The incident prompted a review of security protocols and a temporary ban on aid shipments.
Reopening Details and Restrictions
The Israeli Airports Authority confirmed the partial reopening, stating that it was made in accordance with a "directive of the political echelon." While passenger traffic will be permitted, the crossing remains closed to humanitarian aid shipments bound for the Gaza Strip. Israeli authorities have indicated that the ban on aid deliveries will remain in effect until Jordan completes its investigation into the September 18th incident and implements new inspection protocols for Jordanian drivers.
Significance of the Crossing
The Allenby Crossing is a vital gateway for West Bank Palestinians traveling abroad, as it is the only international crossing that doesn't require entering Israel. It also serves as a key conduit for commercial trade between Jordan and the Palestinian territories. The United Nations has emphasized that the crossing is a major route for bringing in essential goods, including food and tents, into Gaza, and its closure could significantly impact aid organizations' ability to respond to the ongoing humanitarian crisis.
Political Context and Reactions
The decision to reopen the crossing comes amidst a backdrop of heightened political tensions. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Israel will respond to countries, including France, Britain, Canada, and Australia, that have moved to formally recognize a Palestinian state. Some members of Netanyahu's coalition have even suggested annexing the West Bank in response to this recognition. These developments underscore the complex political landscape surrounding the region and the crossing's significance in the broader context of Israeli-Palestinian relations.
