Katz Urges Egypt to Block Gaza Solidarity Convoy: Rising Tensions at Border
Published: June 11, 2025 | Category: Gaza
📣 Israeli Minister Demands Intervention
Israeli Foreign Minister Israel Katz has officially called on Egypt to prevent a solidarity convoy of international activists from reaching the Rafah border crossing with Gaza. Katz labeled the convoy as “provocative” and warned it could inflame tensions further along the already unstable border zone.
🚛 The Solidarity Convoy: Who's Involved?
The convoy, organized by international civil society groups and humanitarian networks, includes dozens of activists, medics, and legal observers from Europe, North Africa, and Latin America. Their goal is to deliver aid and witness the humanitarian crisis firsthand.
Organizers argue the convoy is peaceful and symbolic, meant to draw attention to Gaza's severe humanitarian blockade. However, Israel sees it as a potential security threat.
🔻 Egypt's Delicate Position
Egypt has yet to respond officially, but sources close to the Foreign Ministry indicate the government is considering limiting access to the Rafah crossing. The Egyptian administration has long walked a tightrope between regional diplomacy and pressure from Israel and the U.S.
📰 Context: Gaza Under Siege
This latest political development comes as Israeli forces recently intercepted a Gaza-bound aid ship, and just days after another deadly incident where 25 aid seekers were shot by Israeli troops in central Gaza.
⚠️ Border Tensions on the Rise
Security analysts now warn that any crackdown on the convoy could spark further protests along the Egyptian and Palestinian sides of the border. Thousands in Gaza have already gathered near the Rafah area, hoping aid might come through.
“We don’t want trouble, we want help. These people are coming for us, not to fight anyone,” said Huda Salama, a displaced mother from Khan Younis.
🌐 International Reactions
- United Nations: Expressed concern over the “growing criminalization of humanitarian solidarity.”
- Turkey: Urged Egypt to allow the convoy safe passage.
- France: Called on Israel to de-escalate at all border points with Gaza.
📌 What Comes Next?
The convoy is currently stationed near Sinai, awaiting clearance. A decision by Egypt is expected within 24 to 48 hours. Meanwhile, pressure continues to mount as food, water, and medicine run dangerously low in Gaza.
📎 Related Coverage:
Sources: Al Jazeera, Reuters, Israeli Foreign Ministry, Anadolu Agency, UN OCHA