Gaza Herald – Diplomatic efforts are underway to pressure Israel into reopening the Rafah crossing in both directions, sources report. The initiative involves the so-called “Peace Council” and its senior representative to Gaza, Nikolay Mladenov, who has been in direct contact with the Israeli government to restore civilian access.
Israel closed all crossings with Gaza shortly after launching its joint operation with the United States against Iran, citing security concerns. The closure has left Gaza residents largely cut off from the outside world, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis in the Strip.
Last week, Israel, under US pressure, partially opened the Karm Abu Salem crossing to allow limited humanitarian aid into Gaza. However, Rafah, the main gateway for Palestinians to enter and leave the territory, remains closed, leaving thousands stranded and dependent on irregular aid deliveries.
A security source told Haaretz that no political instructions have yet been issued to reopen Rafah, emphasizing that “current field conditions do not allow it at this time.” Meanwhile, Gaza’s healthcare system faces critical shortages of medicine and medical supplies.
Years of genocide have severely damaged hospitals and medical infrastructure. Healthcare workers have been targeted in killings and arrests, and the number of injured continues to rise, leaving medical facilities unable to cope with urgent needs.
International and UN reports warn that Gaza’s health sector is on the brink of complete collapse. Without reopening the crossings to allow regular aid and medical shipments, hospitals cannot meet the needs of patients and the wounded, putting millions at heightened risk.
