Israel’s restrictions destroys Gaza’s fishing industry‎

Israeli navy continues to harass Palestinian fishermen, destroying an industry that once supported more than 70,000 residents of the poverty-stricken coastal enclave.

The report shows that between 2011 and 2012 Israeli navy committed around 150 violations against Gazan fishermen.

Under the so-called 1993 Oslo Peace Accords, Israel retained military control of Gaza's territorial waters and agreed to allow fishing boats to sail into the Mediterranean for up to 20 nautical miles.

But in reality, fishing is permitted only within less than three nautical miles.

Gazan fishermen often get arrested or shot by Israeli forces when they sail close to that limit.

Fishermen advocates say Israeli navy aims to destroy Gaza's fishing industry.

The Euro-Mid report also highlights an increase in poverty levels among fishermen as a direct result of Israeli violations.

Many fishermen and their families live in dire conditions due to the ongoing Israeli violations of their rights.

The Israeli naval blockade has had a very negative effect on all aspects of their lives.

Israel claims it is imposing a naval blockade to prevent arms smuggling into Gaza an allegation which is rejected by fishermen.

Israeli hardships imposed upon Gaza’s fishermen and their families have substantially increased poverty and unemployment among not only fishermen but also individuals connected to the fishing industry.