October 14, 2015. Erez Crossing opened later than normal at 10:30am for limited travel only. By noon, however, the crossing was fully operational. Yesterday at 11am the crossing was closed following clashes between Palestinian demonstrators and Israeli army forces. There were reports of damage to the facility. The crossing re-opened at 3pm for return of Palestinians to Gaza only.
In the absence of a tangible threat to the safety of travelers and staff at the facility, the crossing must remain open. Criteria for travel through the crossing are already restrictive and it’s clear that the ability to travel bears tremendous consequence for the daily lives of hundreds of thousands of residents of Gaza, particularly given the ongoing closure of Rafah. The operation of the crossing must not be used as a punitive measure toward the civilian population.
Kerem Shalom Crossing is open today for passage of goods and operated regularly yesterday as well.
Rafah Crossing between Gaza and Egypt will open tomorrow to allow Gaza residents to return to the Strip only. The crossing was open on September 30 for exit of pilgrims and again for two days, October 7-8, only for pilgrims returning from Mecca. The last time Rafah was open for entrance and exit of approved categories was August 17-20.