(VOVworld) - Israel plans to build a massive concrete wall along its border with the blockaded Gaza Strip. The Israeli Defense Ministry recently accepted bids from 20 Israeli construction firms for the planned multi-layered wall, which will extend both above and below ground.

Photo: Reuters

Construction is expected to begin in October with the participation of four Israeli companies. The first phase of the wall will stretch 10 kilometers, which will be gradually extended to a total of 60 kilometers, entirely surrounding the coastal enclave. The barrier aims to prevent tunnels originating from Gaza from entering Israeli territory.