Humanitarian Officials Call for De-escalation in Rafah and Reopening of Border Crossings

Humanitarian officials are urgently calling for de-escalation in Rafah and the reopening of border crossings to prevent a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. Aid agencies, including UNICEF, Doctors without Borders, and the Palestine Red Crescent Society, are expressing concerns about the increasing hostilities in the region and the limited entry of aid.

The Palestine Red Crescent Society emphasized the need for border crossings to be opened to allow essential humanitarian aid, including food, medicine, and fuel, to reach the people in Gaza. The ongoing closure of crossings by Israeli forces, especially the vital Rafah crossing, is hindering the delivery of crucial supplies and posing a significant humanitarian and health threat.

UNICEF Regional Director for the Middle East and North Africa, Adele Khodr, echoed these concerns, highlighting the dire situation faced by civilians in Gaza. With major hospitals in the north within evacuation zones and facing disruptions in medical supplies delivery, the lives of many are at risk. The situation is further exacerbated by the inability of those at imminent risk of famine to receive assistance.

Doctors without Borders (MSF) also shared their challenges in providing care in Rafah, citing violent incidents and airstrikes damaging hospitals. Despite these obstacles, MSF has resumed operations at Nasser hospital in Khan Younis, focusing on orthopedic surgery, burn care, and occupational therapy.

The urgent plea from humanitarian officials underscores the critical need for de-escalation in Rafah and the reopening of border crossings to prevent a worsening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. The lives and well-being of the people in the region depend on swift action to ensure the delivery of essential aid and medical care.