Gaza Strip: Evacuation of Wounded Palestinians and Dual Nationals Delayed at Rafah Crossing
The Rafah crossing, which connects the Gaza Strip to Egypt, remained closed on Wednesday, causing delays in the evacuation of wounded Palestinians and dual nationals. The closure was due to Israel’s refusal to approve the list of individuals who were supposed to be evacuated, according to a Hamas official.
The conflict between Israel and Hamas started over a month ago when Hamas militants crossed into Israel and killed approximately 1,400 people, mostly civilians. They also seized 239 hostages, as reported by Israeli officials. In response, Israel launched a relentless bombardment and ground invasion of the Gaza Strip, resulting in the deaths of over 10,500 people, predominantly civilians, according to the Hamas-run Palestinian territory’s health ministry.
The Rafah terminal reopened on November 1 to facilitate the evacuation of foreigners and dual nationals stranded in the Gaza Strip. However, it was temporarily closed for two days after Israeli strikes targeted ambulances heading towards the border. The Palestinian Red Crescent and the Hamas-run health ministry confirmed these incidents. Israel’s military claimed that they had targeted an ambulance being used by a “Hamas terrorist cell.”
On Wednesday, a large crowd of people hoping to cross into Egypt was seen at the Rafah crossing point. Mazen Danaf, a German passport holder, described the situation in Gaza as “horrible,” citing the lack of electricity, water, fuel, and overcrowded hospitals.
Egypt had previously announced its intention to assist in evacuating approximately 7,000 foreigners through the Rafah crossing. However, with the ongoing closure, the evacuation process has been delayed.
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Heading 1: Rafah Crossing Closure Delays Evacuation of Wounded Palestinians and Dual Nationals
Heading 2: Background: Gaza Strip Conflict and Humanitarian Crisis
The conflict between Israel and Hamas has resulted in a dire humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The ongoing violence has claimed the lives of thousands of people, predominantly civilians, and left the region devastated. The reopening of the Rafah crossing provided a glimmer of hope for the evacuation of foreigners and dual nationals trapped in the conflict zone.
Heading 2: Rafah Crossing Closed Due to Israel’s Refusal to Approve Evacuation List
Despite the reopening of the Rafah crossing, the evacuation process has hit a roadblock. Israel’s refusal to approve the list of wounded individuals who were supposed to be evacuated has led to the closure of the crossing. This delay further exacerbates the already dire situation in Gaza, where essential resources such as electricity, water, and fuel are scarce.
Heading 2: Challenges Faced by Those Stranded in Gaza
The closure of the Rafah crossing has left many individuals stranded in Gaza, including foreigners and dual nationals. Mazen Danaf, a German passport holder, described the situation as “horrible,” highlighting the lack of basic necessities and overcrowded hospitals. The urgency for evacuation grows as the humanitarian crisis worsens.
Heading 2: Egypt’s Role in the Evacuation Process
Egypt had previously committed to assisting in the evacuation of approximately 7,000 foreigners through the Rafah crossing. However, with the ongoing closure, the evacuation process has been delayed. It is crucial for Egypt and other international actors to work towards a swift resolution to ensure the safe evacuation of those trapped in Gaza.
Heading 2: Conclusion
The closure of the Rafah crossing has caused significant delays in the evacuation of wounded Palestinians and dual nationals from the Gaza Strip. With Israel’s refusal to approve the evacuation list, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza worsens. It is imperative for all parties involved to prioritize the safety and well-being of those trapped in the conflict zone and work towards a swift resolution.