Aid Trucks Begin Entering Gaza Through Kerem Shalom Crossing
In a significant development, aid trucks from Egypt have started entering the Gaza Strip via the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing. This marks an essential step in providing much-needed humanitarian assistance to the besieged Palestinian territory. Al-Qahera News, which is closely associated with Egyptian intelligence services, reported the entry of these trucks on Sunday.
A total of '200 trucks' departed from the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing, which has been closed since Israel took control of the terminal on the Palestinian side in early May. These trucks are now heading approximately four kilometers south towards Kerem Shalom. Although the exact number of trucks that passed the initial checks remains unspecified, it has been confirmed that several trucks carrying foodstuffs, medical aid, and fuel have successfully crossed.
The Humanitarian Crisis in Gaza
The move comes amidst severe restrictions on humanitarian access imposed by Israel, which is currently conducting military operations in Rafah. Despite an order from the International Court of Justice to halt its offensive, Israel took control of the Rafah crossing, blocking the passage of humanitarian aid and causing significant displacement. According to the UN, around 800,000 people have fled due to the ongoing conflict.
Egypt had refused to reopen the Rafah border while Israeli troops controlled the Palestinian side. However, following discussions between Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sissi and US President Joe Biden, Egypt agreed to allow humanitarian aid into Gaza through the Kerem Shalom crossing. Israel inspects all aid and distributes it through the United Nations.
Ongoing Challenges and International Efforts
Despite Israel's claims of increased aid, the UN and NGOs argue that the humanitarian situation in Gaza remains dire. The number of aid trucks entering Gaza has decreased in recent weeks, and severe shortages have led the UN agency for Palestinian refugees (UNRWA) to suspend food distributions in the south of Gaza. UN humanitarian operations continue to face severe restrictions due to the closure of key crossing points.
In addition, the Israeli authorities have reportedly prioritized private commercial sector trucks over humanitarian aid at the Kerem Shalom crossing, further complicating relief efforts. This development has intensified calls for a more balanced approach that combines aid and market access in Gaza.
International efforts have been ongoing to address the crisis. Both Biden and al-Sissi agreed to send senior teams for further discussions and negotiate new initiatives, including hostages' release and achieving a lasting ceasefire. The ultimate goal is to end the humanitarian disaster and improve living conditions in Gaza.
- Israel's recent activities in Rafah have significantly impacted the humanitarian situation in Gaza. Reports indicate that the number of aid trucks entering Gaza has considerably reduced, and key distribution centers remain inaccessible. The UN has identified a risk of famine and reported that numerous hospitals are out of service.
- Egypt's role in facilitating aid has been crucial. President Abdel-Fattah al-Sissi's commitment to allowing aid through Kerem Shalom following discussions with President Joe Biden underscores international collaborative efforts. Biden welcomed al-Sissi's commitment, emphasizing that it would help save lives in Gaza.
- The Israeli government, while ensuring the entry of humanitarian aid, has also maintained strict inspection protocols and has prioritized private commercial sectors. This strategy has received criticism from aid agencies urging a balanced approach that facilitates both humanitarian and market access in Gaza.
