The report highlights a deadly Israeli military operation in Gaza that resulted in two fatalities. Simultaneously, there is a growing and desperate call from Palestinians, aid organizations, and the international community for the Rafah crossing—the main gateway for aid and civilians out of Gaza—to be reopened. Its closure has exacerbated the already catastrophic humanitarian situation for the 2.3 million people trapped inside the besieged territory.

The Rafah crossing, on the border between Gaza and Egypt, is the only point of exit and entry for the vast majority of Gaza’s population that is not under direct Israeli control. Its status is a matter of life and death.

Egypt is in a difficult position. It has historically acted as a mediator and has allowed some aid and wounded individuals to pass through. However, it strongly opposes a permanent solution that involves resettling Palestinians in Egypt, viewing this as a threat to its national security and a potential end to the prospect of a Palestinian state.