30.07.2007|Other|Principal Correspondence

Joint Call from Human Rights Groups to Open Rafah Crossing

Israeli and Palestinian human rights organizations appeal Israel, the EU, the PA and Egypt to open Gaza's borders, regardless of the political agenda vis-à-vis Hamas. The organizations state that the residents of the Strip must not become hostages in the struggle for control of the area. The closure of the crossing for over six weeks severely harms hundreds of thousands of residents who cannot leave or return to Gaza, their livelihood, and their ability to receive medical treatment and to study. Israel's obligation to have the border opened is part of its responsibility as the occupying power which effectively controls the Gaza Strip.