Israel closes Gaza crossings amid tensions with Iran
Tel Aviv, June 8
Israel on Sunday night announced the closure of crossings into Gaza following a spike in tensions with Iran, CNN reported.
The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) said the move is part of "necessary security measures."
The closure affects the Kerem Shalom crossing, the main entry point for humanitarian aid into Gaza.
According to CNN, COGAT added that adequate aid has already been delivered since the ceasefire began and emphasised that the measure "will not affect the humanitarian situation" in the region.
Earlier in February, Israel had also closed the Gaza crossings at the start of its conflict with Iran, but reopened few days later.
Iran launched missiles at Israel on Monday, marking the first Iranian missile attack since the April 8 ceasefire.
"Sirens were sounded in several areas across the country following the identification of missiles launched from Iran toward Israel. The IDF identified missiles launched from Iran toward Israel. Defensive systems are operating to intercept the threat," the Israel Defence Forces (IDF) stated.
No casualties or damage have been reported so far from the attack,according to the euro news.
The Israeli Air Force (IAF) confirmed that missiles were launched from Iran toward Israel, with defense systems actively intercepting the threat and the Home Front Command issuing safety directives to the public.
"The IDF has identified that a short time ago, missiles were launched from Iran toward the territory of the State of Israel. Defense systems are operating to intercept the threat. In the last few minutes, the Home Front Command has distributed a preliminary directive directly to mobile phones in the relevant areas. The public is requested to exercise responsibility and act in accordance with the directives - they save lives. Upon receiving the alert, one must enter protected spaces and remain in them until a new announcement. Exit from the protected space will be permitted only after receiving an explicit directive; continue to act in accordance with the Home Front Command's directives," IAF wrote on X.
On Sunday, Israel struck terrorist headquarters in the Dahieh district of Beirut after Hezbollah fired at their territory.
— ANI
Reader Comments
The timing seems suspicious—closing crossings just before Iran launches missiles? Feels like a pre-planned move. Also, how can they guarantee humanitarian aid won't be affected when the main entry point is shut? This region is a powder keg and everyone keeps adding fuel. 🚨
While I understand Israel's security concerns, using civilians as pawns by shutting aid crossings is wrong. The missile attacks from Iran are alarming, but collective punishment of Gaza's population won't solve anything. India has always advocated for peaceful resolution—hope our leaders are engaging with both sides behind the scenes. 🤞
Interesting how the media focuses on the crossing closure but plays down the fact that Iran just launched missiles at Israel. Two wrongs don't make a right, but nations have the right to defend themselves. The Kerem Shalom closure is a preventive measure, not a punishment. Let's see if Iran escalates further. 🇮🇱
As an Indian, I'm watching this with concern. We have millions of people working in Gulf nations, and any escalation between Israel and Iran could have ripple effects on oil prices and regional stability. I hope our government is working quietly for peace—we need stability, not more conflict. The humanitarian angle can't be ignored either. 🕊️
Closing the crossing is a legitimate security measure given the missile threat. Iran's attack is a major escalation—first since April ceasefire. But I wonder if Israel could set up alternative routes for aid. Human life should remain paramount, even in conflict zones. The IDF's statement about
We welcome thoughtful discussions from our readers. Please keep comments respectful and on-topic.