Here is the link to the article that I read: http://www.thenational.ae/article/20090526/FOREIGN/705259853/1011/ART
After the Israeli attack on Gaza ended last January a new sort of wall was but into place on Palestinian fisherman, they were no longer allowed to go beyond three nautical miles (5.5 km) from shore. This greatly restricts their ability to fish and feed their families. The Israeli Navy is patrolling the coastal waters off of Gaza under the justification of security reasons. There are 3500 registered fishermen in Gaza. The article goes on to state "about 45,000 Gazans work in the industry, whether in repairs, onshore support or as merchants. With Gazans having an average family size of seven, the fishing industry helps support about 300,000 people, a significant proportion of Gaza’s 1.4 million population.
This artificial wall created by the Israeli navy affects people's sense of freedom. Looking out to see and watching as patrol boats circle and arrest people is very intimidating. The article states "since the war approximately 50 people have been arrested, but all were released back to Gaza the same day." Their boats have been confiscated, but the fishermen have been released. This would give the appearance of the intention is not security, but to remove people's ability to earn a living and feed their family. Otherwise why release all detainees the same day? Actions speak louder than words.
I am not sure I understand the reasoning behind this. I know that fishing has regulations and laws that need to be followed to protect the fishing industry and the fish population, but to control how far a person can go to fish goes beyond regulation. It is serious control. Especially knowing that the fishing is better farther and deeper out. This is one more issue that is making the Palestians feel more controlled and trapped. Hence another reason for being extremist and needing to create something they can control.
ReplyDeleteWow! It seems that the Israeli's are really trying to mark their territory. Not only do they have actual walls that are going to stop people from receiving adequate health care, access to their farmlands, and out of reach for professional medical attention; they also have invisible walls. Are they purposely trying to suck the livelihood from these people until they starve to death, and magically become extinct. I think it is absurd that there are all of these perimeters, whether they be real or imaginary that prohibit people from providing for their families. When and where does it end?
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