Egyptian state media reported on Thursday that trucks carrying materials intended to build mobile homes crossed the Rafah crossing into Egypt, on their way to an inspection area at the Israeli-controlled Kerem Shalom crossing before being allowed into Gaza. This marks an important step in the efforts to provide temporary housing for those displaced by the ongoing conflict.
The trucks, which are part of international humanitarian efforts, were subjected to inspection at Kerem Shalom before they would be granted entry into Gaza. The mobile homes are expected to provide some relief as Gaza continues to struggle with the aftermath of Israel’s extensive bombing campaigns.
Al Qahera News TV, a state-run Egyptian channel, aired footage showing the trucks moving along the road after crossing the Rafah gate, signifying the first tangible step in delivering much-needed housing materials.
The timeline for when the mobile homes will actually arrive in Gaza remains uncertain, as the region faces immense logistical and security challenges. The conflict has left Gaza in ruins, with the United Nations estimating that approximately a quarter of a million housing units have been destroyed or severely damaged.
The war between Israel and Hamas has caused unprecedented devastation, with over 50,000 lives lost across Gaza and Lebanon. In Gaza alone, nearly 70% of buildings have been destroyed or damaged, severely affecting the daily lives of residents. In Israel, the October 7 attack resulted in the deaths of approximately 1,200 people.
While a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas has been in place since late last month, the situation remains tense as both parties prepare for the more challenging second phase of the ceasefire. The initial ceasefire is set to expire in early March, and negotiations for its renewal are expected to be complex.
Efforts like the delivery of mobile homes are part of broader international initiatives to address the immense humanitarian crisis in Gaza, with the goal of providing temporary shelter to the thousands of people displaced by the conflict while broader reconstruction plans are formulated.
