16-10-2023 (GAZA) As Israel maintains a firm hold on the region, hundreds of thousands of people in Gaza are seeking refuge at the border crossing with Egypt. In response to the dire humanitarian crisis, Egypt’s security officials have declared a temporary ceasefire in the southern part of Gaza, set to commence on Monday at 9 am local time. The ceasefire will last for five hours, during which the Rafah crossing will be opened.
According to NBC News, Kamel Khatib, a representative of the Palestinian Embassy, has confirmed that foreign national Palestinians will be permitted to enter Egypt starting at 9 am local time on Monday. This decision coincides with the initiation of humanitarian aid to be delivered to Gaza.
It has been reported that Israel will also reinstate the water supply to the southern parts of Gaza, which had been cut off following Hamas’ attack. However, the Palestinian Water Authority has yet to confirm the restoration of the water supply.
Amidst ongoing Israeli airstrikes, a warning has been issued for residents to evacuate the northern part of Gaza. Recently, Hamas launched coordinated terrorist attacks on kibbutzim, a music festival, and city streets.
Israel Defense Forces have concentrated personnel and equipment at the border, with plans to intensify their aerial assaults using an integrated approach from the air, sea, and land.
The reopening of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt will provide an opportunity for foreign national Palestinians to leave Gaza and for the delivery of humanitarian aid. Currently, this crossing remains the sole outlet for evacuating individuals from Gaza and transporting essential supplies.
The U.S. Embassy in Israel has cautioned that residents hoping to cross the Rafah crossing may receive minimal notice if it opens. Furthermore, uncertainties persist regarding the duration of the crossing’s accessibility.
U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed confidence in a conversation with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, assuring the reopening of the Rafah crossing. Blinken highlighted collaborative efforts involving the United Nations, Egypt, Israel, and other parties to ensure the delivery of assistance to those in need.
In a separate development, Israel’s Energy and Infrastructure Minister, Israel Katz, announced the resumption of water supply to the south of Gaza following discussions between Prime Minister Netanyahu and President Biden.
As the conflict with Hamas persists, the Israel Defense Forces have shared satellite images illustrating the extent of Hamas’ attacks on October 7. The IDF has also revealed confiscated weapons used by Hamas, vowing to dismantle the terrorist infrastructure in Gaza.
Emphasizing the severity of the situation, the IDF referred to Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar as a “direct enemy” of Israel and a global threat.
