The blockade began in 2007 after Hamas took control of Gaza. It has been the subject of intense debate ever since. Turkey has insisted that the blockade imperils Gaza's 1.8 million residents. Israel contends that lifting the blockade would allow Hamas to bring in weapons and other materials, making Israel more vulnerable to attack. But Israel has become aware that the blockade has largely failed to undermine Hamas. Moreover, the blockade has compounded anti-Israeli sentiment among Palestinians and has helped galvanize support for Islamist militant groups. And beyond Turkey's scorn, international condemnation has increased pressure on Israel to end the blockade. Port Support One proposed solution to the blockade problem would be to establish a port on a manmade island several kilometers off the Gaza Strip's coast. A bridge with a checkpoint would connect the island to Gaza.