Rafah Crossing: A Tool for Humiliation and Coercion in Gaza

The director of the human rights organization ‘Al-Dameer’, Ala’a Al-Sakafi, has issued a strong critique of the operations at the Rafah crossing, characterizing it not merely as a means to alleviate the suffering of the people but as a point of humiliation and extortion for citizens in the Gaza Strip.

In an exclusive interview with the Shehab news agency, Al-Sakafi explained that the number of individuals permitted to travel or return through this crossing remains exceedingly limited. This restriction is incongruent with the high number of citizens registered and eager to travel or return, particularly the patients awaiting treatment outside Gaza. Such conditions exacerbate the humanitarian crisis, leading to a deterioration in their physical, mental, and emotional well-being.

Al-Sakafi further noted that ‘the harrowing testimonies documented by Al-Dameer reveal the oppressive and arbitrary actions faced by citizens at the crossing. These include humiliating and degrading searches, the obstruction of travelers, and at times, the denial of access to water or basic services. Additionally, the lack of suitable waiting areas has forced some individuals to relieve themselves in public due to the unbearable conditions.’The director emphasized that these actions whether perpetrated by occupying forces or affiliated armed groups are conducted in a degrading manner devoid of the most basic human standards that guarantee human dignity and the right to freedom of movement. He underscored that the practices enforced at the crossing have effectively transformed it into a tool for torture and humiliation rather than a humanitarian passage aimed at alleviating their suffering.

Al-Sakafi reiterated that the freedom to travel and move is a human right guaranteed under international laws and conventions including those established by the United Nations and international humanitarian law. This obligates the occupying authorities to reopen the crossings and ensure freedom of movement for the civilian population. He concluded by stating that these repressive actions reflect a systematic Israeli policy.