Post by : Naveen Mittal

Palestinians Stranded as Israel Shuts Key West Bank Crossing

Israel has closed the Allenby Bridge, the only international crossing connecting the West Bank to Jordan, leaving over two million Palestinians stranded. The closure, set to last indefinitely, was announced by Israel’s airports authority, citing orders from the “political leadership” without providing a reason.

The move follows a recent incident in which two Israeli soldiers were shot near the crossing by a Jordanian gunman, who was killed at the scene. The crossing had briefly reopened afterward but has now been shut again.

Allenby Bridge: Lifeline for Palestinians

The Allenby Bridge, also known as the King Hussein Bridge, is located midway between Amman and Jerusalem. It is the only official entry point to the West Bank that does not go through Israel. Most Palestinians cannot use Israeli airports or other border crossings, making the bridge crucial for travel, trade, and access to humanitarian aid.

Personal Stories: Travel Plans Disrupted

Prominent Palestinian politician Mustafa Barghouti described the closure as a “dangerous move” that effectively imprisons people in the West Bank and deprives them of the only passage abroad. He emphasized the impact on families separated by the border, including mothers unable to return to their children.

Bethlehem medical student Maxim Giacaman, 23, said the closure prevented him from traveling to Germany for a crucial cardiac surgery rotation, calling the situation “miserable” and a major setback for his career.

Impact on Trade and Aid

The bridge is also a vital trade route, allowing goods and medical supplies to enter the West Bank. Israeli authorities report that about 9% of humanitarian aid sent by truck to Gaza passes through this crossing, highlighting its significance for the region’s humanitarian needs.

Political Context: Rising Tensions

The closure comes amid rising tensions following moves by countries including the UK, France, Australia, and Canada to recognize the State of Palestine. Israel has condemned these actions as a “reward for terrorism,” while ultranationalist ministers have called for outright annexation of the West Bank.

Since the Hamas-led attack on southern Israel that killed approximately 1,200 people and took 251 hostages, Israel has intensified its control over the West Bank. This includes hundreds of new checkpoints, military operations against Palestinian resistance groups, accelerated settlement construction, and increased attacks by settlers on Palestinians.

International Response and Criticism

Barghouti criticized the international community, stating that Israel will not be restrained unless there are serious punitive measures. He warned that the closure underscores the failure to deter Israel from expanding its oppressive policies.

Historical Background of Allenby Bridge

The Allenby Bridge was constructed in 1918 following British general Edmund Allenby’s victory over the Ottoman Empire in Palestine. Israel has controlled its side of the crossing since the 1967 Six-Day War and has occasionally closed it temporarily during religious holidays or for security reasons.