Summary
Several Arab and Muslim-majority countries are concerned about Israel's plan to open the Rafah crossing from Gaza to Egypt only for outgoing traffic, without allowing people or aid to enter Gaza. The foreign ministers from these countries are urging Israel to adhere to U.S. President Donald Trump's peace plan, which calls for the crossing to be open in both directions. The situation arises amid ongoing tensions and violations of a ceasefire agreement.
Key Facts
- Israel plans to open the Rafah crossing only for people to leave Gaza, not to return or allow aid into Gaza.
- Egypt, Qatar, and six other countries expressed their concerns and rejected this plan.
- These countries emphasized the importance of following President Trump's peace plan, which includes opening the crossing in both directions.
- The Rafah crossing has mostly been closed since the conflict began, blocking necessary aid and medical evacuations.
- The foreign ministers urged for the implementation of a two-state solution with a Palestinian state including Gaza, the West Bank, and East Jerusalem as its capital.
- Israel linked the opening of the crossing to the return of captives, but only one captive body reportedly remains.
- A joint statement by the concerned countries also called for a multinational stabilization force to be part of President Trump's plan to ensure peace and security.
