International Aid Blocked at Rafah Border

Humanitarian Aid Disruption

In Al-Arish, Egypt, numerous trucks carrying essential humanitarian aid are stationed, awaiting the reopening of the Rafah border crossing into the Gaza Strip. Although Israel previously committed to allowing 600 aid trucks to cross daily, fewer than 100 have been permitted entry.

Logistical Challenges

Truck drivers report prolonged waiting times in desert conditions. According to driver Fathy Fahmy, “We have been working like this in Al-Arish since the conflict began, delivering various goods, including clothing, blankets, and food.”

Delays are attributed to deliberate blockages by Israel, leading to spoilage of food supplies. Mohamed Mostafa, another driver, notes that significant time is spent on truck inspections, sometimes requiring months to deliver a single load.

International Court of Justice Ruling

On Wed, the International Court of Justice mandated that Israel collaborate with United Nations agencies to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza. Despite this, the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has not been able to bring supplies into Gaza since March.

Operational Impact

UNRWA continues its operations in Gaza, managing health centers, mobile medical teams, sanitation services, and educational activities for children. The agency currently has 6,000 trucks of supplies pending entry. Criticisms have emerged from Israeli leadership, citing concerns about the agency’s alleged infiltration by Hamas.