The Palestinian Authority has blocked the import of Israeli produce to Shechem (Nablus).
According to a report published by the Bethlehem-based Ma'an news agency, the governor of the PA-controlled city stopped potatoes from entering the local market on Wednesday. The news outlet often serves as a semi-official mouthpiece for the Palestinian Authority.The move, which prevents Israeli farmers from selling their produce to PA vendors, also prevents PA business people from doing business with Israel – a direct violation of the Oslo Accords and numerous foreign aid initiatives.
The decision was issued in line with a decision made by the PA Agriculture Ministry, according to the report.Maj.-Gen. Jibrin al-Bakri was quoted as saying the intent was to protect “national products and farmers' livelihoods.”
The ministry had decided to “remove foreign produce” from the local markets, he said.