Closure of Rafah Crossing with Gaza Due to "Security Conditions"

The U.S. State Department reported today, Wednesday, that the Rafah border crossing with Gaza is closed due to security conditions. U.S. State Department Deputy Spokesperson Vedant Patel mentioned in a press briefing that the border crossing was closed on Wednesday because of "security conditions," without specifying their nature. He added that "the U.S. expects that once the security conditions are resolved, the Rafah crossing will open on a regular schedule." Furthermore, Patel noted that "Washington believes there are additional steps Israel can take to ensure the protection of civilians in Gaza." The Rafah crossing has opened several times in recent days to facilitate the entry of aid from Egypt into Gaza and the departure of foreign nationals from the area.