Israel’s lack of cooperation in facilitating aid deliveries to Gaza humanitarian assistance and evacuations of foreign passport holders through the Rafah crossing, the only entry not under its complete control, has resulted in the stagnation of hundreds of tons of supplies.
Cairo has stated that the Rafah crossing, which holds the potential to serve as a crucial entry point for much-needed relief into the besieged Palestinian enclave, remains unofficially open but inoperative due to Israeli airstrikes on the Gaza side.
Ahmed Mohamed
The intensified Israeli bombardment and siege of Gaza have left its 2.3 million residents without power, pushing health and water services to the brink of collapse, with dwindling fuel supplies for hospital generators.
Egypt’s Diplomatic Efforts
Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Sameh Shoukry, emphasized the urgent need to alleviate the suffering of Palestinian civilians in Gaza. However, he expressed frustration over unproductive talks with Israel, stating, “Until now, the Israeli government has not taken a position on opening the Rafah crossing from the Gaza side to allow the entrance of assistance and exit of citizens of third countries.”
U.S. Hopefulness and Disappointment
U.S. officials were still holding out hope for Rafah to operate for a few hours later on Monday, as noted by White House spokesman John Kirby. However, earlier optimism had been dashed.
Gaza’s Ongoing Crisis
The people of Gaza have been under siege since Israel launched its most intense bombardment and blockade following a devastating cross-border assault by Islamist Hamas militants on October 7. This has resulted in hundreds of thousands of Palestinians being displaced within Gaza, with some attempting to reach the Rafah crossing in search of refuge, but many forced to return north after failing to find safety.
Ceasefire Uncertainty
Earlier on Monday, two Egyptian security sources had informed Reuters about a temporary ceasefire in southern Gaza, set to last for several hours to facilitate aid and evacuations at Rafah. However, Egyptian state TV later quoted an unnamed high-level source as denying the existence of any truce. Hamas official Izzat El-Reshiq also refuted reports of a deal to open the crossing, a denial echoed by Israel.
Preparations on the Ground
On the ground at Rafah, sources indicated that the Egyptian side of the crossing was prepared for operations. Foreign Minister Shoukry expressed Egypt’s intention to restore regular access through Rafah, including for Palestinians in need of medical treatment or normal travel.
Aid Waiting for Entry
Meanwhile, hundreds of tons of aid from NGOs and various countries remained on trucks in the nearby Egyptian town of Al-Arish, awaiting the green light to enter Gaza, according to sources and witnesses. The Red Crescent in northern Sinai reported the readiness of dozens of volunteers to act at a moment’s notice.
Fuel Movement
In a separate development, Reuters footage showed U.N.-flagged fuel trucks seemingly departing Gaza for Egypt via the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing.
Long-standing Blockade
The movement of goods and people through Rafah has been tightly controlled under the blockade of Gaza imposed by Israel and Egypt since 2007, with only registered travelers allowed to cross.
