Allegations of Bribery at Gaza Border Entry Point

gaza, palestine - Claims of corruption and bribery involving entry of goods into Gaza from Egypt.

Exploitation at Gaza Border Entry Point

Following the ceasefire that came into effect on January 19, trucks carrying goods and aid to Gaza are being controlled by Egyptian businessman and politician Ibrahim el-Organi at the Rafah border crossing. Sources from Egypt and Palestine have revealed that efforts to bring humanitarian aid to Gaza are facing difficulties due to exorbitant fees imposed on commercial trucks and Organi's authority to determine which trucks can enter the strip.

According to sources at the Rafah border crossing, companies affiliated with Organi, named 'Sons of Sinai' and 'Golden Eagle', have taken over all operations related to aid deliveries, completely sidelining the Egyptian Red Crescent. These companies are reportedly demanding $20,000 in bribes from commercial trucks carrying goods to Gaza for 'priority passage'. As a result of these bribes, prices of goods sold in Gaza continue to rise. Trucks carrying humanitarian aid are either forced to pay extortion fees before entering the region or are looted.

Organi's name first made headlines last year with reports suggesting he was making $2 million per day from Gazans attempting to cross into Egypt to escape conflict.