Rafah: The 'Open' Crossing They Keep Shut
📰 THE STORY: ABC News reports on the potential opening of Gaza's Rafah crossing 'within days,' framing it as a potential relief effort, implying a return to some semblance of normalcy or humanitarian access. 🔍 WHAT THEY'RE NOT TELLING YOU: Historical Context: The Rafah crossing has been largely controlled and often closed by Egypt under immense pressure from the Israeli government, particularly
since the 2007 siege began. Egypt receives $1.3 billion annually in U.S. military aid, significantly influencing its border policies. The entire Gaza Strip has been under a devastating blockade since 2007, an act of collective punishment that predates the 2023-2024 genocide, restricting movement of people, goods, and essential supplies for 17 years. Double Standard: Western media routinely
presents any 'opening' of Rafah as a benevolent act, rather than an overdue, inadequate response to an illegal blockade. When other nations face border closures or humanitarian crises, the West often demands immediate, unfettered access. Yet, for Gaza, a 'temporary' opening after tens of thousands are massacred is framed as progress, not a perpetuation of suffering under continued siege. There's
no serious questioning of why Egypt, a sovereign nation, would maintain such a tight chokehold on its Palestinian neighbors unless under external duress. Follow the Money: U.S. military aid to Egypt, totaling $1.3 billion annually, is a powerful leverage tool. This aid package, alongside broader geopolitical pressure, incentivizes Egypt's Sisi government to maintain strict control over Rafah,