The unprecedented decision drew strong condemnation from the Palestinian Authority and many Palestinians, who said Hamas continues to allow various Israeli products to enter the coastal enclave.
The move was a "despicable crime," PA officials in Ramallah said, adding that it would deepen the split between the West Bank and Gaza.
Trade and Crossings director-general Rami Abu Rish announced the ban in a letter to Karem Abu Salem (Kerem Shalom) crossing director Ahmed Musalam. The Kerem Shalom crossing is on the border between Israel and the Gaza Strip.
Products from Al-Juneidi Company for Dairy Products and Food Products and Al-Jebrini Dairy & Food Industry Co. were banned, said the letter, dated November 22. The two companies are based in the West Bank.
| ...and they sound Arab-owned. |
Many Palestinians criticized the Hamas ban, especially since the decision does not include Israeli dairy products.