The Weaponization of Logistics
THE CLAIM: The New Arab reports that individuals attempting to traverse the Rafah crossing into Gaza describe the experience as 'humiliating' and 'terrifying.' Specific anecdotes detail prolonged waits, arbitrary delays, and a sense of being 'at the mercy' of authorities. THE EVIDENCE: Personal testimonies gathered by The New Arab detail multi-day waits, last-minute cancellations of travel permits
for humanitarian workers despite prior approval, and the necessity of navigating a gauntlet of checkpoints often controlled by non-uniformed personnel. These granular accounts paint a picture of systemic obstruction rather than mere logistical breakdown. The Palestinian General Administration of Crossings and Borders confirmed in 2023 an average processing time for individuals at Rafah exceeding
12 hours, often in unsheltered conditions, before the current intensification of hostilities. THE CONTRADICTIONS: The official justification for such stringent controls is often framed as 'security.' However, the details—targeting humanitarian aid workers, children, and the elderly with indefinite delays and arbitrary denials—suggest a motivation beyond conventional security protocols. If the
objective were purely security, processes would be standardized, transparent, and focused on verifiable threats, not the indiscriminate demoralization of an entire population. This stands in stark contrast to border crossings in other conflict zones, such as Ukraine, where international efforts were made to streamline refugee passage during active warfare in 2022. THE NETWORK: The Rafah crossing,