Israel Permits Commercial Import of 'Dual-Use' Items into Gaza, Restricting Humanitarian Access

Israel has implemented a dual system for controlling shipments into Gaza, permitting commercial traders to import goods classified as 'dual-use'—items that can serve both civilian and military purposes—while restricting these same items from humanitarian organizations. This includes essential supplies such as generators and tent poles, which are vital for the civilian population.

For over a month, Israeli authorities have allowed businesses to transport multiple dual-use items into Gaza, including generators and metal pallets, which are more durable in winter conditions than wooden alternatives. These goods are now available in Gaza's open markets, having passed through the same Israeli checkpoints that currently bar humanitarian shipments of these items.

A diplomatic source expressed concern over this practice, stating, "It seems highly improbable that the Israelis don't know about them. It's very shocking that these things are able to enter through commercial channels." This disparity hampers the efforts of humanitarian organizations supporting Palestinians in need, while providing profitable opportunities for commercial traders who can secure import permits from Israeli authorities.

Tania Hary, executive director of Gisha, an Israeli human rights group monitoring access controls for two decades, commented on the situation: "On the surface the private sector [shipments of items on the dual-use list] can appear to be very confusing and an inconsistency. But I see it as very consistent with their policy of trying to strengthen the hand of certain actors and weaken the hand of others."

The Israeli defense ministry unit responsible for Gaza access, COGAT, denied any preferential treatment, stating that the policy governing aid entry is uniformly applied across UN agencies, international organizations, donor countries, and the private sector. They also mentioned offering alternatives for dual-use items to facilitate humanitarian responses, though specifics were not provided.

This development underscores ongoing challenges in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza, where restrictions on dual-use items have long been a contentious issue. The current policy appears to create a two-tier system, potentially undermining the efforts of aid organizations while allowing commercial entities to profit from the import of essential goods.