Dozens of humanitarian aid trucks remain stranded near Egypt's Rafah crossing as Israel postpones reopening the critical Gaza border point, exacerbating supply shortages in the besieged enclave. Satellite images and eyewitness accounts show kilometers-long queues of vehicles loaded with food, medicine, and fuel on the Egyptian side as of October 19.
The Rafah crossing – Gaza's primary lifeline for international aid since conflict escalated earlier this month – has remained closed despite earlier assurances of temporary openings. Multiple truck drivers reported being repeatedly turned back by Israeli authorities without explanation, leaving perishable supplies at risk.
"We've made three attempts this week alone," said one Egyptian driver who requested anonymity. "Each time we unload, reload, and wait – while people in Gaza queue for bread." The delay comes as UN agencies warn of collapsing health services and dwindling clean water supplies across Gaza.
While Egypt continues coordinating with international mediators, regional analysts suggest the border impasse reflects broader geopolitical tensions. The closure disrupts carefully orchestrated aid corridors established through multilateral agreements, leaving humanitarian organizations scrambling for alternative routes.
