Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that Egypt will not open the Rafah crossing to Palestinians fleeing the ongoing conflict in Gaza, intensifying regional tensions over the humanitarian crisis.
Speaking at a briefing in Jerusalem, Netanyahu emphasized that the Israeli government is coordinating with international partners but insisted that responsibility for keeping the Rafah border closed lies with Cairo. “Egypt has made it clear that the crossing will not be opened for the displaced,” he said.
The Rafah crossing, which links southern Gaza to Egypt’s Sinai Peninsula, has been a critical point of contention since the outbreak of the latest war. Humanitarian groups have repeatedly urged Egypt to allow safe passage for civilians, warning of worsening conditions inside the besieged enclave.
Cairo, however, has expressed concerns about security risks, potential destabilization of the Sinai region, and the possibility of a mass displacement turning into a permanent refugee crisis. Egyptian officials maintain that they are providing humanitarian aid through controlled mechanisms but will not allow large-scale entry.
The dispute has drawn sharp criticism from international observers, who argue that civilians caught in the conflict are being left with no safe route to escape. Meanwhile, Israel faces mounting pressure over its military operations, as casualty figures in Gaza continue to rise.
With no agreement in sight, the fate of thousands of displaced Palestinians remains uncertain, highlighting the deepening humanitarian and political challenges in the region.
