Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty announced that the Rafah Crossing is operational around the clock on the Egyptian side, though it remains closed on the other side. He emphasized the need to open all crossings linking Israel with the Gaza Strip, highlighting Israel's legal responsibilities under international law as the occupying power. Abdelatty's remarks were made during a joint press conference with European Commissioner for Equality, Preparedness and Crisis Management Hadja Lahbib, who is visiting Egypt.
According to State Information Service Egypt, the meeting underscored the urgency of initiating early recovery projects, rebuilding Gaza's infrastructure, and providing adequate shelter for its residents. Additionally, the safe and unobstructed delivery of humanitarian and medical aid was stressed. "The European Commissioner will visit the logistics hub, the Egyptian Red Crescent's facilities, and the extensive humanitarian and logistical support Egypt provides to Gaza's people," Abdelatty stated. The discussion also focused on developments in Gaza and efforts to stabilize the ceasefire following the Sharm El-Sheikh Agreement.
The meeting addressed preparations for the upcoming Cairo conference on recovery, reconstruction, and development in Gaza. Abdelatty praised the initial meeting of the Palestine Donors Group in Brussels, emphasizing the importance of active participation and meaningful contributions from the European Union and its Member States. He also highlighted the significance of the European Commissioner's planned visit to North Sinai, which showcases the EU's commitment to understanding the situation at the Rafah Crossing and assessing the humanitarian conditions faced by Gaza's civilians. Egypt has played a crucial role, providing over 70 percent of the humanitarian aid entering the Strip since the conflict began in October 2023, along with medical care for Palestinian patients and wounded in Egyptian hospitals.