Explosives smuggling attempt prompts Gaza border crossing restrictions

The export of goods through the Kerem Shalom crossing between Gaza and Israel has been halted after the Defense Ministry foiled an attempt to smuggle kilograms of explosive material from Gaza into Israel. The explosives were discovered hidden among a shipment of clothing, and it is suspected that they were intended for terrorist elements. Following the incident, the passage of goods has been temporarily suspended to reevaluate inspection practices. This comes amidst rising tensions between Israel and Palestinian factions, with reports of potential Israeli targeting of Hamas officials outside of the West Bank. Palestinian prisoners in Israeli prisons have also announced a hunger strike in response to policies pushed by National Security Minister Itamar Ben-Gvir.