US: Closing of Kerem Shalom, Rafah set back delivery of humanitarian aid

Palestinians inspect the debris after Israeli bombardment at Al-Daraj neighbourhood in Gaza City. Pic/AFP

The United States has expressed worry about the closure of crucial crossings in Gaza due to the ongoing Israeli offensive. The closure of Kerem Shalom and Rafah crossings has disrupted the delivery of humanitarian aid, which is vital for the people of Gaza.

In a briefing by the US State Department, spokesperson Matthew Miller highlighted the setback caused by the closures. He stressed the importance of swiftly reopening these crossings to ensure the continuous flow of humanitarian assistance. Miller explained that while Israel has committed to reopening Kerem Shalom soon, the situation depends on future developments, reported ANI.

Miller clarified that Kerem Shalom was closed not solely due to Israeli actions but also because it was bombed by Hamas. He emphasised the urgency of reopening both Kerem Shalom and Rafah crossings, as they are critical entry points for humanitarian aid and essential supplies like fuel for water desalination and food distribution.

Matthew Miller, per the ANI report, said, "Certainly, the closing of Kerem Shalom and the closing of Rafah set back the delivery of humanitarian assistance. Now, to some extent, the full answer to that question depends on what happens next and whether they're quickly reopened. And Israel has committed to reopening Kerem Shalom tomorrow - we're working to make sure that that actually happens - so humanitarian assistance can continue to come through."

"Kerem Shalom didn't close just because of an action by Israel; it closed because it was bombed by Hamas," Miller added stressing on the urgency of reopening the Kerem Shalom and Rafah crossings.

"We want to see it reopened as soon as possible. They've said they'll do it tomorrow. Same thing with Rafah. They said that Rafah will reopen for the delivery of fuel, which is incredibly important for the desalinization of water, it's incredibly important to fueling the trucks that deliver humanitarian assistance once it's inside Gaza, and it's incredibly important for running bakeries that deliver bread for the population there that needs it so much," Miller further said.

According to the ANI report, the closures come amidst escalating tensions, with multiple airstrikes hitting Rafah and resulting in casualties. The Israeli Prime Minister's Office reiterated the continuation of military operations in Rafah to exert pressure on Hamas, while Hamas claimed responsibility for targeting Israeli forces near the border.