Israel lifts West Bank, Gaza closure

RAMALLAH, April 16 (MENA) – The Israeli occupation forces lifted a closure on border crossings with the West Bank and Gaza Strip imposed at the start of the Jewish holiday, at just after midnight between Saturday and Sunday, The Times of Israel quoted officials as saying.

The West Bank and Gaza closure began at 4 p.m. Friday and security officials had agreed to convene Saturday evening to decide whether or not to extend the closure for the entire Jewish festival that began Friday evening and ends a week later.

Israeli Defense Minister Benny Gantz’s office announced the decision to open the crossings, following a situational assessment he held with top military and defence officials.