Total closure in Gaza: Israel pressures Hamas and humanitarian aid is at risk
- Context of the Rafah crossing
- Difficulties in delivering the remains of hostages and their impact
- The humanitarian crisis and the depletion of aid in Gaza
- Political and military factors related to aid
- Internal tensions and violence in Palestinian territory
The Rafah crossing, a key passage between Gaza and Egypt, remains closed despite expectations that it would reopen to allow humanitarian convoys to enter. The situation is complicated by Israel's demand that Hamas hand over the remains of the last deceased hostages it is holding, which is preventing the delivery of much-needed aid to an area affected by deep conflict.
This situation reflects a growing humanitarian crisis in Gaza and the complex negotiations between the parties involved, in a context where the international community is demanding the opening of the crossing and the massive delivery of aid. The persistence of the blockade directly affects thousands of people who depend on vital assistance.
Context of the Rafah crossing
The Rafah crossing is the main gateway between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, functioning as a strategic point for the flow of people and goods. Its opening or closure directly influences the arrival of humanitarian aid, the movement of civilians and trade in this region.
Historically, the crossing has been subject to temporary closures, especially in contexts of armed conflict or political tensions. On this occasion, the dispute over the return of the remains of deceased hostages has a direct effect on its blockade, putting the health and lives of thousands of Palestinians at risk.
Difficulties in the delivery of hostages' remains and their impact
The exchange of human remains between Israel and Hamas has proven to be a sensitive process fraught with obstacles. So far, Hamas has returned eight bodies, seven of which have been identified. However, the remains of 20 other people remain in Gaza, creating additional tension.
Israel's demand that Hamas hand over these remains in order to allow for an increase in humanitarian aid has led to a stalemate in negotiations. The refusal or delay in handing over the remains means that the blockade of the Rafah crossing continues, exacerbating the crisis of essential supplies in Gaza.
Political implications
The Israeli Prime Minister is facing internal pressure to link humanitarian aid to the return of remains. In addition, the Minister of National Security threatened to cut off the flow of aid if these conditions are not met, highlighting the complexity of the diplomatic and humanitarian process.
Exchange agreement
The negotiated plan includes the handover of 15 Palestinian bodies in exchange for each deceased Israeli hostage. However, the cross-checking of data and the identification of bodies have generated mistrust and mutual accusations, hindering the continuity of the agreement.
The humanitarian crisis and the erosion of aid in Gaza
The Gaza Strip faces a deep humanitarian crisis due to restrictions on the entry of basic supplies and international aid. The war initiated by Hamas' attack has exacerbated an already precarious situation, leaving the population with shortages of food, medicine and basic resources.
There have been reports of impediments to the entry of thousands of trucks carrying humanitarian aid, a situation that seriously jeopardises the health and lives of thousands of civilians. The United Nations has warned of conditions close to famine, while the emergency plan includes the gradual reopening of border crossings to facilitate assistance.
Impact on the population
The prolonged blockade affects vulnerable groups such as children, the elderly and people with chronic illnesses. The lack of medical supplies and essential foodstuffs poses a direct threat to their survival in an environment already devastated by conflict.
Requirement for increased aid
The international community, together with humanitarian agencies, insists on the wider opening of border crossings, emphasising the need to send thousands of trucks per week to address the crisis. This condition is a key point in the negotiations, although its fulfilment remains pending.
Political and military factors related to aid
The negotiated ceasefire agreement requires cooperation between Israel and Hamas to allow the flow of aid and the cessation of fighting. However, one of the major challenges remains the disarmament of the military group, a demand that it has rejected.
This rejection hinders stability and any progress in the reconstruction of the Palestinian territory. Israel and the United States maintain the position that Hamas cannot play a role in a future government without disarming, a fundamental condition for the continuity of the peace plan.
Conditional amnesty
The plan envisages a conditional amnesty for Hamas members who decide to disarm, as part of a strategy to stabilise the region. If this does not happen, swift and possibly violent action is expected to dismantle their military capabilities.
International pressure
International mediators are urging both sides to comply with the agreements and facilitate humanitarian access, pointing out that the blockade only prolongs the suffering of the civilian population and hinders regional reconciliation.
Internal tensions and violence in Palestinian territory
In Gaza, in addition to the humanitarian crisis, internal tensions are intensifying between armed gangs, Hamas government security units and Palestinian clans, which, according to accusations, may be receiving external support. This creates a climate of insecurity and violence that complements the conflict with Israel.
Hamas has summarily executed people accused of collaborating with Israel, showing videos that have circulated on its official channels. These actions seek to consolidate control and order, but they also increase internal violence and division.
Security control
Hamas security forces have resumed patrols in key cities, seeking to eliminate groups considered outlaws and ensure public safety.
This is an attempt to restore some order amid the chaos.
Impact on the civilian population
Internal violence is exacerbating the social crisis, directly affecting the inhabitants of the Gaza Strip, who are also facing the precariousness of international aid. Insecurity adds an extra risk to the already fragile humanitarian situation.