Palestinian Authority / Israel (Country threat levels - 5 / 4): The Israeli security Cabinet voted on 17 June 2010 to ease the restrictions on the transfer of certain humanitarian supplies and materials to the Gaza Strip, and adjustments will be made to allow the importation of such items as food, toys, kitchen utensils, mattresses and towels, among other items. However, an existing ban on the private importation of building materials remains in effect, as does a ban on the passage of people through the shared Israel-Gaza border crossings. Additionally, authorities stated that no alterations will be made in the naval blockade of the territory. The development comes amid a political backlash against Israel over its ongoing blockade of the Gaza Strip as well as a 31 May incident in which its navy raided a protest flotilla attempting to reach Gaza. It is not known when the decision to ease the blockade will be implemented.
Meanwhile, the Israeli navy remains on a heightened state of alert, as an Iranian vessel allegedly attempting to bring aid to Gazans continues on its course for the territory, and a second ship is expected to depart in the coming days. Officials are tracking the first ship, which could near the Gaza coast as early as 19 or 20 June. Additionally, it has been reported that another flotilla may soon be launched from nearby Lebanon; due to the short distance between Israel (and Gaza) and Lebanon, such a development would allow little time for Israeli authorities to plan their course of action. Overall, Israeli authorities continue to assert that flotilla ships will not be permitted to breach the naval blockade and make port in Gaza. The Iranian vessel, and the Lebanese flotilla if launched, pose a highly sensitive concern for the Israelis, who will view these actions as provocative.
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