In a firm stance against recent developments at the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt, Egypt’s ECSS deputy director, Eldawiry, has strongly criticized Israel’s occupation of the Palestinian side of the crossing. Speaking to Saudi news website Al-Arabiya on Thursday, Eldawiry emphasized that such actions blatantly violate established agreements and undermine efforts for peace in the region.
Eldawiry dismissed any suggestions implying acquiescence to Israel’s presence, labeling them as desperate attempts to coerce Egypt into accepting an unacceptable status quo. “What is necessary to restart operations at the Rafah crossing is for Palestinian elements to be the ones running it,” he asserted, reiterating Egypt’s principled stance.
The escalation began in early May when Israel assumed control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing, effectively halting the flow of crucial humanitarian aid into Gaza, which has been reeling under dire conditions exacerbated by ongoing conflict.
“Egypt insists on the immediate withdrawal of Israeli forces from Rafah and rejects any attempts to impose a fait accompli,” Eldawiry declared, emphasizing that Egypt’s decision to close the crossing was necessary to prevent Israel from dictating terms on its territory.
According to Eldawiry, Israel’s actions aim to create an international crisis to advance its objectives through occupation tactics. He reaffirmed Egypt’s refusal to normalize or legitimize Israel’s presence at the crossing, labeling it a temporary illegitimate occupation that must cease promptly.
Highlighting the strategic importance of the Rafah crossing, Eldawiry emphasized Egypt’s unwavering position that its operation should be under Palestinian management, as per the 2005 crossings agreement. He hinted at the possibility of reintroducing the European Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) contingent upon Palestinian authority over operations.
Eldawiry concluded by condemning Israel’s destructive actions at the Rafah crossing, citing them as evidence of malicious intent to disrupt humanitarian aid efforts into Gaza. He underscored Egypt’s commitment to upholding international principles and facilitating peace in the region, insisting on Israel’s compliance with ceasefire proposals and complete withdrawal from Gaza, including the Rafah crossing and the Philadelphi corridor.
As tensions persist, Eldawiry’s statements reflect Egypt’s resolute stance in safeguarding its sovereignty and supporting Palestinian self-governance, while urging international solidarity to uphold humanitarian principles amidst ongoing conflict.
