Israeli authorities have temporarily shut down all border crossings into Gaza, suspending humanitarian aid deliveries and medical evacuations. The closures affect critical entry points including the Rafah crossing with Egypt, which had recently reopened for Palestinian patients needing urgent care.
Israeli authorities suspended operations at all Gaza border crossings on Saturday, halting the flow of humanitarian assistance and blocking medical evacuations as military operations against Iran were underway, according to COGAT, Israel’s government coordination agency.
Among the shuttered entry points was the crucial Rafah border crossing with Egypt, which had just resumed limited operations in early February. The crossing had been allowing small numbers of Palestinians to pass through for the first time in months, particularly those requiring emergency medical treatment.
More than 2 million Gaza residents have been forced from their homes during Israel’s military campaign in the territory, leaving the population heavily reliant on international humanitarian assistance.
The United Nations reported in mid-February that it continues encountering obstacles while attempting to distribute critical aid throughout Gaza.
A February analysis by Human Rights Watch found that Israeli limitations on aid shipments have perpetuated shortages of medical supplies, rebuilding materials, food supplies, and clean water throughout the territory.
COGAT defended the crossing closures by claiming sufficient food supplies have entered Gaza during the current ceasefire to meet population needs four times over, though the agency provided no supporting data. Officials stated that “the existing stock is expected to suffice for an extended period.”
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