Many residents of Netanya, a conservative town where the right-wing Likud party captured the most votes in the last election, in April, expressed opposition to allowing Palestinians to cross into Israel without permits, though some welcomed it. “These are people who would like to spend time at the beach,” said Maurice Sedowitz, a retired dentist. “Palestinian families should be able to enjoy themselves here with or without a permit.”The usually heavily guarded borders were clearly open for business. Nor did two Israeli military vehicles driving by take action against the beachgoers. Palestinian tour agencies, which have suffered major losses since the pandemic hit the West Bank in March, sprung into action.

Source: New York Times August 11, 2020 22:18 UTC