Israeli Minister of Agriculture Uri Ariel has ordered a stop in the import of fruits and vegetables from the occupied Palestinian territories, local media reported yesterday.
Tue 18 Dec pm
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Yatta, punishment demolition imminent— SFoP (@SFoP_Palestine) December 18, 2018
Despite warnings from Israeli security, army, intelligence and the civil administration that the Palestinian economy is fragile and cannot withstand such steps, Ariel insisted on his decision.
Security sources told Channel 2:
“This is a populist, irresponsible decision that derives solely from political considerations at the expense of the security of the entire public, including the settlers.”
Israeli Minister of Agriculture Uri Ariel has ordered a stop in the import of fruits and vegetables from the occupied Palestinian territories. pic.twitter.com/muDdhv2bl3
— Palestine Live (@pallive_en) December 19, 2018
The minister has justified his decision saying the Palestinian Ministry of Agriculture has decided to stop importing sheep from Israel.
If implemented, the minister’s decision is estimated to cause a loss of 1 million shekels ($0.27 million) per day for the Palestinian economy.
Minister said to freeze Palestinian produce imports, defying security warning: Uri Ariel's decision decried by defense officials as 'populist' and destabilizing, could cost Palestinian economy NIS 1m. each day; final decision rests with… https://t.co/9O8o7M5hmz TimesofIsrael pic.twitter.com/3kXOvOCAl9
— Jewish Community (@JComm_BlogFeeds) December 18, 2018
According to Israeli media, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu can overrule the minister’s decision.
(MEMO, PC, Social Media)
