Israeli officials have said, in the past, that they are concerned that building materials in particular could be misappropriated by Hamas for military ends.

But some Israeli commentators - even those who advocate a tough stance against Hamas - say that the strategy behind the much wider blockade is ill-defined, and harmful to Israel's international standing.

The BBC has received information from reliable sources that there are currently 81 items that are approved for import - from kidney beans to tinned meat - and as of March, shoes.

Among the large range of goods currently forbidden are jam, chocolate, wood for furniture, fruit juice, textiles, and plastic toys.

The global economic meltdown is focusing customers' minds on the need for ethical business - businesses which benefit people and the environment while delivering a profit. And, in many cases, it is women who are leading the ethical business movement which is why The Times is supporting the Triodos Women in Ethical Business Awards.

Triodos Bank launched the awards in 2006 to celebrate the achievements of the UK's most inspiring ethical business women. The first round of judging for this years awards have taken place and below are the nine women who are shortlisted for the various award categories.