Israeli authorities are continuing to impose severe measures on internationals moving in and out of the Gaza Strip. As of today, 18 May 2003, with the exception of some United Nations staff and a small number of humanitarian workers, internationals are being prevented from entering or leaving the Gaza Strip.

Severe restrictions have been imposed on the Gaza Strip since the beginning of May; however, last week witnessed a broadening of the scope of the crackdown to include entry into Israel. On 13 May 2003, the Middle East and North Africa Head of the Ford Foundation was denied entry into Israel, and on 14 May 2003, the Human Rights Officer from the same organisation was deported back to Athens.

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