Israel to ban Gaza agricultural exports

Agriculture Minister said that the decision was considered in view of the entry of goods and animals to the strip from Egypt which were not fit for human consumption
 
The Israeli government is considering a ban on Gaza's agricultural produce exports to Europe and other world markets through all Israeli ports.This follows the entrance of Egyptian agricultural products with no supervision or control into Gaza after the Rafah border was breached.
 
Agriculture Minister Shalom Simhontold Radio Israel last week that  the decision was considered in view of the entry of goods and animals to the strip from Egypt which were not fit for human consumption.
 
Simhon emphasized that the cause was not political, but because of health and sanitary reasons.
 
The minister added that according to information furnished by the Israeli veterinary services Egypt is suffering serious diseases affecting livestock and some of the diseases are life threatening if consumed by humans.Egypt is plagued with serious animal diseases, such as avian flu, hoof and mouth disease, Rift Valley fever and others, many of which are dangerous to humans.
 
According to Palestinian veterinary authorities over 10,000 sheep, 350 cows and thousands of chickens entered Gaza with no veterinary supervision.
 
In addition, thousands of tons of vegetables, fruits and plants also made their way into Gaza.