US Embassy In Israel Ensures Rafah Border Opens

UNSPLASH ILLUSTRATION

JAKARTA - The United States Embassy in Israel said it received information on the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and Gaza opening on Saturday at 10.00 a.m. local time.

In a statement issued Saturday, the US Embassy said "If the border is opened, we don't know how long it will be open to foreigners to leave Gaza."

"We anticipate that many people will try to cross if the border opens, and Americans trying to enter Egypt are expected to prepare for potential chaotic and irregular circumstances on both sides of the crossing," the embassy continued.

"The situation remains dynamic and uncertain and the security situation is unpredictable," he added.

The statement calls on everyone to conduct a thorough assessment of their personal safety and security before considering any trip to the border or trying to cross.

"We will send the latest information regarding US government assistance in Egypt via this email address," according to the statement.

The conflict in Gaza, which Israel has bombarded and blockaded since October 7, began when Hamas began Operation Hurricane AlAqsa, a sudden attack that included a series of rocket fire and infiltration into Israel by land, sea, and air.

The attack was Hamas' retaliation for the invasion of the AlAqsa Mosque and the increasing violence perpetrated by Israeli settlers.

The Israeli military then launched the Iron Sword Operation targeting Hamas in the Gaza Strip.

It was reported that 4,137 Palestinians, including 1,524 children and 1,000 women were killed in the Israeli attack on Gaza. This figure reaches more than 1,400 in Israel.