Egypt pressing to open crossings, provides 70 percent of Gaza aid despite Israeli obstacles
In an interview with Extra News on the sidelines of the 6th edition of the Egyptians Abroad Conference, Abdelatty described the humanitarian situation in the war-devastated Gaza Strip as 'catastrophic by all standards,' adding that the international community should be ashamed of this reality.
He held the occupying power fully responsible under international law and the Geneva Conventions for the deteriorating situation, noting that while there are five crossings linking Israel to Gaza, all remain closed. Meanwhile, Egypt has kept the Rafah crossing open 24/7 from its side, although the Palestinian side of the crossing remains closed due to Israeli restrictions, and aid trucks are often targeted.
The minister emphasized that Egypt is exerting maximum pressure on the Israeli side through its contacts with the United States to open the crossings and allow aid delivery.
He added that Egypt is also working tirelessly to provide assistance, whether by land, with around 120 trucks delivered so far, or by participating in joint airdrops with Western countries and Jordan.
The top diplomat stressed, however, that airdrops cannot substitute for access through land crossings, which remain closed by Israeli authorities.
Abdelatty said that 70 percent of the humanitarian aid delivered to Gaza since October 7, 2023, has been provided by Egypt. He criticized misleading campaigns that downplay Egypt's efforts, saying such narratives only serve Israel's objective of easing international pressure.
On ceasefire negotiations, the minister confirmed that talks are ongoing, and Egypt is intensifying its efforts to reach a deal. However, the main obstacle remains the absence of genuine political will from the Israeli side to agree on a comprehensive deal that would include the release of hostages and Palestinian detainees, along with the unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid.
He expressed hope that these efforts would soon bear fruit, allowing for the announcement of a date for the international Gaza reconstruction and early recovery conference.
Abdelatty noted that many countries and international organizations have expressed their desire for Egypt to co-sponsor the conference. (MENA)
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