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GAZA CITY (Ma'an) -- The Israeli authorities reopened the Erez (Beit Hanoun) crossing between Israel and the northern besieged Gaza Strip, on Thursday, following its closure for Jewish holidays.

Maher Abu Ouf, an official from the Palestinian Liaison, confirmed that Israel reopened the Erez crossing allowing passage in both directions.

Passengers allowed to travel through the crossing include patients, journalists, merchants, diplomats, laborers and holders of entry permits into Israel.

Ouf also said that the Israeli authorities reduced the working hours of the Erez crossing since last week and closed it completely during the Jewish holidays.

The Erez crossing (Beit Hanoun) is the only operating crossing used for the movement of people between Israel and the besieged Gaza Strip and the occupied West Bank; the crossing is under full Israeli control.

The Erez crossing is currently used by patients seeking treatment in Israel, Jordan and the West Bank.