Egypt finds itself in a delicate position, facing mounting pressure to open up its borders in an act of neighborliness to Gaza. The situation has raised humanitarian concerns, with essential supplies and vital aid piling up at the border between Gaza and Egypt.
Israel responded to the attacks by closing its two border crossings with Gaza and imposing a “complete siege” on the territory. The move consequently blocked crucial supplies of fuel, electricity, and water. As it is, the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt remains the only viable outlet for people to leave the enclave and supplies to enter.
However, the crossing has been mostly closed in recent days. This has left Gazans and foreign nationals stranded, while humanitarian aid accumulates on the Egyptian side of the border. Palestinian officials reported that Egypt had blocked the gates of the crossing with concrete slabs, a claim that Egypt denies. Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry stated that while the crossing remains open, air strikes have rendered the roads inoperable on the Gaza side.
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Nonetheless, efforts are underway to ensure safe passage for Americans and other civilians out of Gaza. Meanwhile, discussions are being held between the Biden administration, Israel, and Egypt. Unfortunately, Egypt expresses unease about the prospect of housing hundreds of thousands of Palestinian refugees. Currently, Egypt is already hosting millions of migrants.
There are over two million Palestinians residing in Gaza. The densely populated coastal enclave is under intense Israeli bombardment, and there are fears of a potential humanitarian catastrophe. Israel’s military is still calling for the evacuation of northern Gaza residents. Amidst all this, the United Nations reports the amassing of Israeli reservists on the border, hinting at potential ground incursion plans.
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The recent escalation began with Hamas’ brutal attack on Israel on October 7. This resulted in the death of at least 1400 people and the capture of 199 hostages. Efforts to reopen the Rafah crossing and evacuate individuals from Gaza, especially foreign nationals, are ongoing. The US has advised its citizens in Gaza to move closer to Rafah in case the crossing reopens.
Meanwhile, humanitarian supplies continue to arrive in Egypt. Various organizations, such as the World Health Organization and the Red Cross, are delivering aid to assist Palestinians in Gaza. Despite challenges, Egypt reaffirms its commitment to providing aid to Gaza. However, it emphasizes the need to protect national security.
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It also expresses concerns about accommodating a vast influx of Palestinian refugees into its territory. Jordan and Egypt are applying diplomatic and political pressure on Israel to facilitate the safe passage of aid into Gaza through the Rafah crossing.
