Gaza’s Pepsi Factory Closes, Owners Blame Israel’s Strict Restrictions

JALUR GAZA – Gaza’s Pepsi bottling company was forced to halt operations this week due to import restrictions Israel tightened during the 11-day conflict between Israel and the fighters Palestine last month.

The announcement was made by the owner of the Pepsi Gaza company. With a ceasefire between Israel and Hamas in Gaza, Israel on Monday allowed a limited resumption of exports from the blockaded area.

“But Israel continues to impose stricter measures on imports of raw materials, including carbon dioxide gas and syrup needed by bottling factories to produce Pepsi, 7UP and Mirinda sodas,” said Hamam al-Yazeji of Pepsi Gaza.

Also read: Israel Claims to Shoot Down Drone with Laser Gun on Plane

“Yesterday we completely ran out of raw materials, and unfortunately we had to close the factory, repatriating 250 workers,” Yazeji said.

Also read: Israel asked to prepare for attack after Raisi wins Iran presidential election

He added, “Before the May battle, Gaza’s Pepsi was generally allowed to import the required materials.”

Also read: Irish MP: Israel can no longer run away from responsibilities

Asked for comment, COGAT, a branch of Israel’s defense ministry, said, “Due to the security situation, the import of industrial raw materials from the State of Israel into the Gaza Strip is impossible.”

– .