WASHINGTON (JTA) — Nine Western nations have joined in an effort to stop the smuggling of weapons into the Gaza Strip.
"This initiative will strengthen the international community’s ability to support a durable cease-fire," said the statement issued Tuesday by the U.S. State Department, describing an effort that also includes Canada, Denmark, France, Germany, Italy, Britain, the Netherlands and Norway. "The Program of Action provides a comprehensive platform for enhanced cooperation and coordination in the areas of information and intelligence sharing; diplomatic engagement; and military and law enforcement activities."
A memorandum of understanding between Israel and the United States promising such an effort led Israel in January to unilaterally end its war in Gaza with Hamas.
Part of the effort includes stopping and boarding ships suspected of running arms to Hamas.
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