The Karam Abu Salem border crossing, also known as Kerem Shalom by Israeli forces controlling the crossing, reopened on 17 December for aid trucks for the first time in the war on Gaza. The crossing, the junction of the Gaza-Israel border and the Gaza-Egypt border, was closed by Israel following Hamas’ surprise attack on 7 October. Prior to the war, it was the main transit point for goods between Israel and Gaza. The reopening aims to double the amount of food and medicine reaching Gaza while also alleviating pressure on the Rafah border crossing. Karam Abu Salem also provides a faster route compared to Rafah. Around 79 aid trucks began entering through Karam Abu Salem according to officials cited by Reuters. The crossing’s reopening is in line with last month’s hostage swap agreement, which obligates Israel to maintain its commitment to permit the entry of 200 trucks of aid per day. However, concerns have been raised about the capacity of international agencies in Gaza to distribute aid effectively in light of a rising inflow of relief, particularly with an influx of Palestinians who have fled to the south of the…
First Humanitarian Aid Enters Gaza via Karam Abu Salem Crossing Since War Onset
December 17, 2023
