Egypt’s Sisi rejects accusations of blockading Gaza

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has rejected accusations that Cairo is complicit in the blockade of Gaza, stressing that Israel controls the Rafah crossing and must approve any entry of aid.

Speaking during a visit to the Egyptian Military Academy on Friday, Sisi said Egypt is connected to Gaza by only 14 kilometers, while most crossings, including Karem Abu Salem, are under Israeli control. He added that Israeli forces’ presence in the Philadelphi Corridor has effectively shut down Rafah, despite Egypt repairing it four times after Israeli strikes.

Sisi dismissed calls to storm the crossing, warning that forcing aid through would amount to military action.

“Is Egypt required to enter a war as a result of developments in Gaza? No. We are only defending ourselves,” he said.

The president emphasized that Egypt remains committed to delivering humanitarian assistance to Palestinians but will not be dragged into direct confrontation.

“Accusing Egypt of blockading Gaza is a false narrative,” Sisi said. “Our goal is to provide aid and alleviate suffering, without endangering our people.”