Egypt resumes operation of Rafah border crossing

CAIRO - 26 September 2021: The Egyptian authorities resumed the operation of the Rafah border crossing with Gaza Strip in both directions after the official weekend, Egypt’s state-owned news agency MENA reported on Sunday.

 

The crossing starts re-operation as per the directives of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi to facilitate movement for the Palestinians stranded at it and for entering humanitarian aid, staff, and materials, equipment needed for Gaza reconstruction.

 

The crossing has been opened according to directives of President Abdel Fattah El Sisi since May 16, 2021. This comes within the framework of the Egyptian efforts to alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian citizen in the strip, restore the normal life of people in Gaza and start the reconstruction process.

 

It is also part of the Egyptian commitment announced by Sisi to quickly improve the living conditions of the Gaza dwellers.

 

On May 7, clashes began between Israeli forces in the West Bank and Jerusalem and civilians as the latter were protesting forced displacement, particularly from Sheikh Jarrah in Eastern Jerusalem, and assaults on worshippers in Al Aqsa Mosque. And, on May 10-20, Israel shelled and carried out airstrikes against Gaza Strip.

 

The violence and aggression across Palestinian territories incurred 243 deaths, including 66 children, and 6,039 injuries, as reported by the Palestinian News and Information Agency (WAFA).