Palestinians Ease Embargo on Israel

The Palestinian Authority has eased an embargo on Israeli products that was imposed during the summer in retaliation for Israeli security closures. Under the partial embargo, about 20 Israeli products were barred from the West Bank and Gaza Strip, including soft drinks, fruit and appliances. Palestinian officials said the list of forbidden products had been shortened but would not say which items had been removed. Other officials said Israeli products similar to goods made in the West Bank and Gaza will remain off limits to protect fledgling industries. The Palestinian embargo is seen more as a symbolic step than a retaliatory measure that could hurt Israel.