Israel-Hamas Negotiations Continue Amid Rafah Crisis

According to official sources, neither Hamas nor Israel are leaving the negotiation table permanently, and ⚾️ Egyptian mediators are still working to bridge the gaps between the two parties. The main points of contention are Hamas' ⚾️ demand for an end to the war and a complete withdrawal of Israeli troops, while Israel insists on a temporary ⚾️ cease-fire, the elimination of Hamas and the release of all hostages.

Displacement and Humanitarian Crisis in Rafah

The Israeli incursion into Rafah ⚾️ this week has resulted in the displacement of approximately 80,000 people, who have sought shelter in Khan Younis and Deir ⚾️ al Balah. The evacuation of parts of Rafah, which has become a sanctuary for hundreds of thousands of displaced Palestinians, ⚾️ has left many living in tents without adequate food, water, and sanitation.

Among the displaced, sign language ⚾️ interpreter Riyad al-Masry and his extended family were forced to leave Rafah for the sixth time since the war began. ⚾️ They were left with no choice due to the ongoing conflict in the area, despite the emotional and physical toll ⚾️ it has taken on them.

Aid Distribution Challenges

The World Food Program has reported that their main warehouse in Gaza is inaccessible ⚾️ due to the ongoing fighting, and only one bakery in Gaza is still operational. Additionally, hospitals may have to shut ⚾️ down their generators within a few days, as goods and fuel have not entered the Rafah crossing for several days.

The ⚾️ United Nations has called for unhindered access for humanitarian aid and stressed that the parties' obligation to facilitate aid extends ⚾️ beyond border crossings and drop-off zones.