Israeli Paratrooper Forces uncover a tunnel network used by terrorist organizations during Operation Cast Lead. Photo: Wikimedia Commons.

JNS.org – Israel on Wednesday resumed the delivery of construction materials into the Gaza Strip, after a pause following the discovery of a massive underground smuggling tunnel near Kibbutz Ein Hashlosha in mid-October, Israel Hayom reported.

The decision to allow the materials into the Gaza Strip was made by Defense Minister Moshe Ya’alon, following requests from international groups and figures, among them U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon. In light of Ban’s request, Ya’alon directed Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories Maj. Gen. Eitan Dangot to work with U.N. envoy Robert Serry to formulate a mechanism that will ensure the materials are not taken by Hamas.

Dangot and Serry decided to implement a system of oversight and supervision over the delivery of construction materials earmarked for only U.N.-funded projects. The mechanism will consist of supervision over U.N.-affiliated workers on the various building projects, which will include Israel receiving periodic photographs and reports.