Zahar: settlements will be homes for Palestinian refugees

Gaza- Commenting on Israel decision to build 1500 new housing units in Jerusalem, Mahmoud Al-Zahar, prominent leader in Hamas movement said that these settlements will be homes for Palestinian refugees after liberation.

According to media sources, the Israeli’ municipality will approve on Sunday the budget of building 1500 new housing units in Ramat Shlomo settlement in Jerusalem.

Regarding Rafah crossing, Zahar revealed in an interview with Slab News, about connections with the Egyptians to reopen Rafah crossing.

“The opening of Rafah crossing for four hours a day is “temporary” and it might be a good opportunity to test the security conditions in Sinai.” He said.

However, he added that the four hours a day are “not enough”.

Sami Mitwalli, director of the Egyptian side of the terminal, said earlier that the crossing would open on Saturday for four hours from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

The crossing is the only way most Palestinians in Gaza can enter or leave the territory. Israel imposes an air and sea blockade on the enclave, and its border is closed to Palestinians. Egypt partially reopened the crossing on Aug. 17 for international travelers with foreign passports and humanitarian cases, but shut down the terminal on Monday after a deadly attack nearby that killed 25 soldiers.