Netanyahu to Approve? Abbas's Unusual Request from Israel

The Palestinian Authority submitted an official request to Israel yesterday, seeking permission for President Abbas to visit the Gaza Strip soon, according to Barak Ravid's report on Walla.

It is noteworthy that last week, Palestinian Authority President Abbas announced in the Turkish parliament his decision to "travel with all members of the Palestinian leadership to the Gaza Strip." According to the report, the request was made when Civil Affairs Minister Hussein al-Sheikh sent a letter to National Security Adviser Tzachi Hanegbi yesterday, formally requesting Israel's approval for Abbas's visit to Gaza. The letter indicated that Abbas wishes to enter Gaza via Israeli territory rather than through the Rafah crossing.

Further reports state that the decision on whether to permit the visit will be made by Prime Minister Netanyahu. No response has been received from the Prime Minister's Office as of this time.