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Bonanza for Palestinian businesses as Ramadan travel permits canceled

While Israel’s cancellation of travel permits to some 200,000 Palestinians during the end of the month of Ramadan was a setback to the plans of many, it was a blessing in disguise for local entrepreneurs, restaurants and resorts.
RAMALLAH, WEST-BANK - SEPTEMBER 23: Palestinians eat in a restaurant on September 23, 2013 in Ramallah, West-Bank. The West Bank and Gaza Strip are inhabited by an estimated 3.33 million Palestinians who live in a region which has a long history as a crossroads for religion, culture, commerce and politics. (Photo by Ilia Yefimovich/Getty Images)

The June 16 stabbing attack in Jerusalem that led to the death of an Israeli soldier caused an angry Israeli response. Three Palestinian youths carried out two simultaneous knife attacks in Jerusalem that killed an Israeli female soldier. The three Palestinians were shot dead by Israeli soldiers.

In addition to the issuing of orders to demolish the West Bank homes of the youths following the attack, the Israeli army canceled June 18 the permits of some 200,000 Palestinians to visit Jerusalem and Israel. The permits issued for the holy month of Ramadan canceled the trips of many West Bank Palestinians to the shores of the Mediterranean, the Sea of Galilee and other tourist spots in Israel.

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