In a televised ceremony in Cairo on Wednesday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi stated that Egypt has consistently maintained the operation of the Rafah border crossing, the sole entry point into the Gaza Strip not under Israeli control.
El-Sisi clarified that while the crossing has never been closed, caution is exercised during conflict situations to avoid exacerbating tensions.
“From the first day, we have been very keen that the Rafah crossing becomes an avenue to deliver aid,” El-Sisi remarked, emphasizing Egypt’s commitment to facilitating humanitarian assistance.
He expressed hope for a mediated ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, anticipating it would pave the way for substantial relief efforts in various aspects for the densely populated Gaza Strip.
As the first Arab country to sign a peace treaty with Israel in 1979, Egypt remains concerned about the potential mass migration of Gazans into its territory.
El-Sisi’s remarks underscore the delicate balance Egypt seeks to maintain in its efforts to support the people of Gaza while navigating the complexities of the ongoing conflict.
