Monday, 25 May 2026
Egypt issues regulations for international delegations visiting Gaza border area
The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a statement outlining strict regulations for foreign delegations wishing to visit the border areas adjacent to the Gaza Strip, including the city of El-Arish and the Rafah border crossing.
These measures are in response to a significant increase in international and regional requests to visit the area in support of Palestinian rights amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
Egypt reaffirmed its commitment to supporting the Palestinian people and emphasized its ongoing diplomatic efforts to halt the violence and alleviate the humanitarian catastrophe affecting more than two million Palestinians in Gaza.
The Egyptian government welcomed the “official and popular” positions that reject Israel’s blockade and violations against the Palestinian people, and reiterated its call for pressure on Israel to lift the Gaza blockade and allow humanitarian aid through all crossings.
In the statement, Egypt made it clear that any planned visits to the sensitive border area require prior approval. All applications must follow established regulatory procedures, including the submission of official requests via Egyptian embassies abroad, foreign embassies in Cairo, or through international organizations to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. This system, Egypt noted, has facilitated previous visits for both governmental and non-governmental human rights groups.
Authorities stressed that, due to ongoing security concerns in the area, no exceptions will be made for requests submitted outside the specified channels. Delegations are urged to adhere strictly to these protocols for their own safety and the overall security of the region.
Additionally, Egypt reminded foreign citizens of the need to comply with standard visa and entry permit requirements when entering Egyptian territory.