(Israel Defense Forces Spokesperson) Hamas, which seized power in Gaza, is supported and funded by Iran. It denies Israel's right to exist and continues to build up its weapons stockpiles to continue attacking the Israeli civilian population. In 2010, 140 rockets and mortars have been fired at Israel from Gaza. Whether using smuggling tunnels or fishing boats, Hamas is constantly trying to smuggle in missiles, rocket launchers, guns, explosives and materials for building weapons. IDF operations, including the maritime closure and crossing restrictions, arise from the need to maintain the safety of the citizens of Israel from the terrorist threat in Gaza and to prevent weapons smuggling. The IDF allows the crossing of goods and equipment into Gaza in a routine and frequent manner, and enables the transfer of people for medical, religious, welfare, business or diplomatic reasons.
2010-05-26 08:27:48Full ArticleBACK Visit the Daily Alert Archive