By KUNA,
Gaza : Israeli Minister of Defense Ehud Barak ordered on Tuesday partial opening of Gaza Strip crossings, despite last night’s decision to close them in response to Palestinian mortar attacks.
Israeli Yedioth Ahronoth daily’s website reported, “Barak’s new decision came after the Egyptian special request of Intelligence Chief Omar Suleiman.” The daily added, “Crossings will reopen Tuesday noon, as Barak had ordered the closing of those crossings after a Palestinian mortar shell was launched from Gaza strip towards Israel.” It was the fourth time Israel had sealed off Gaza in response to Palestinian fire since the Egyptian-brokered ceasefire agreement took effect on June 19.
A Hamas delegation is expected in Cairo today, and expected to meet with Egyptian officials to discuss the truce and recent Israeli violations.