Israeli-imposed restrictions on freedom of movement in the Occupied Palestinian Territories

Closure refers to Israeli-imposed restrictions on movement that apply to Palestinian people and goods, often justified a ‘security’ pretext. There are three basic forms of blockade imposed by Israel in the Occupied Palestinian Territories (OPT) since 1967: internal, external and international. Internal blockade restricts movement within the West Bank using a network of military checkpoints, reinforced by curfews. External blockade prevents Palestinians in the West Bank and Gaza Strip from entering Israel (and also restricts or blocks Palestinians moving between the West Bank and Gaza).

International blockade occurs when Israel closes the border between the West Bank and Jordan. Israel also prevents any ships from sailing into Gaza’s ports, and prevents any air travel to the OPT.