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Israel's travel ban threatens cancer patients in Gaza

Though Israel is allowing some cancer patients to travel for treatment abroad, the many more whose permits have been denied say the move is for show.
MAHMUD HAMS/AFP via Getty Images

GAZA CITY, Gaza Strip — Israel informed the Palestinian Authority June 3 of its decision to open the Erez-Beit Hanoun crossing for cancer patients to access life-saving treatment unavailable in the Gaza Strip. Israel closed its crossings with Gaza May 10 when it launched an offensive against the besieged enclave.

The fighting, which lasted for 11 days, ended with a cease-fire between Hamas and Israel on May 20. The latest escalation caused more than 1,900 injuries. But Israel continued to prevent patients from crossing the border for medical treatment.

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