Israel permits importation of materials for two major housing projects in southern Gaza

Is this the first fruits of success for the upcoming flotilla, as Israel tries to insist to the rest of the world that there is no humanitarian crisis or obstruction of reconstruction works in Gaza?

GAZA CITY (Ma'an) -- Israel has approved construction of two housing projects in the southern Gaza Strip, the UN agency for Palestinian refugees said Tuesday.

UN Relief and Works Agency spokesman in Gaza Adnan Abu Hasnah said two major projects would be constructed to house families from Rafah and Khan Younis whose homes were demolished by Israel in 2001.

The new buildings will also provide housing for families made homeless during Israel's 2002 Operation Defensive Shield, Abu Hasnah said.

Major Guy Inbar, spokesman for the defense ministry department responsible for liaison with the Palestinian territories, told AFP Israel had approved materials to build 1,200 homes and 18 schools. He said the materials would be consigned to UNRWA. more

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