Egypt's SIS organizes int'l media coverage at Rafah crossing following Gaza ceasefire

Ahram Online , Monday 20 Jan 2025

Nearly 150 foreign correspondents reported live on the entry of aid trucks into Gaza through the Rafah crossing following the implementation of the ceasefire early Sunday morning in an event organized by Egypt's State Information Service (SIS).

Rafah
Foreign correspondents reporting on live on the entry of aid trucks into Gaza at the Rafah border crossing.

 

In a statement on Sunday, SIS Head Diaa Rashwan said approximately 150 foreign correspondents from 85 international media outlets reported live from the scene.

This shows Egypt’s relentless efforts since 7 October to support the Palestinian people.

These efforts encompassed political, humanitarian, logistical, and legal dimensions aimed at halting aggression, preventing the displacement of Palestinians, and de-escalating tensions in the Middle East.

Rashwan emphasized that Egypt's persistence has paid off despite challenges, and the crimes of war and genocide committed by Israeli forces would not go unaccounted for.

The event included journalists from 143 foreign media representatives based in Egypt and six visiting outlets.

Prominent participants included global agencies such as the Associated Press, Reuters, and Agence France-Presse and major broadcasters such as the BBC, CNN, and Al Jazeera.

The coverage spanned print, television, radio, and online platforms, highlighting the scale of the event.

Notably, outlets from the United States, Europe, Asia, and the Middle East were present, demonstrating the international importance of the ceasefire and aid efforts.

The media coverage showcased hundreds of trucks loaded with food, medical supplies, fuel, and household essentials entering Gaza through the Rafah crossing.

Foreign correspondents filmed and photographed the convoy’s movement toward Gaza, including trucks heading to Al-Auja and Karm Abu Salem crossings.

Many reporters praised Egypt's coordination efforts and the smooth facilitation of media coverage, with clean feed links and video footage provided by the SIS.

Moreover, Rashwan said this was the 14th media visit organized during the crisis, following high-profile visits by the UN secretary-general, EU officials, and Egypt's prime minister.

This ongoing engagement reflects Egypt’s commitment to transparency in its humanitarian efforts.

The foreign journalists commended the timing and organization of the event, which coincided with the first day of the ceasefire.

They also praised Egypt's critical role in coordinating aid and its robust logistical infrastructure.

Additionally, media representatives expressed interest in future visits, particularly when individual crossings and medical evacuations begin.

Requests were also made to expand coverage to Egypt's hospitals and patient care facilities.

 

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