Mumtaz Moosa | mumtazs@icloud.com
7 February 2024 | 06:00 CAT
2 min read

Photo Credit: Daily Sabah

Amidst the challenges faced by Palestinians seeking to leave Gaza, two primary options exist: the Rafah border and the Erez crossing, both presenting formidable obstacles.

The Erez Crossing demands Palestinians to secure permission from Israeli authorities, a task made arduous by stringent criteria limiting access to specific categories, such as medical and business cases. Besides the difficulty in obtaining permits, this route also exposes individuals to potential persecution, making it risky.

Alternatively, those opting for the Rafah border face a lengthy process of obtaining travel documents, extending over several months. However, as seen in many war-torn regions, the desperation to seek refuge has given rise to an exploitative market, where individuals pay exorbitant sums in bribes to expedite their departure from Palestine.

Since 2007, when Hamas unexpectedly gained control of Gaza through elections, Israel and Egypt have imposed strict blockades, severely impacting the region’s economy and limiting residents’ movements.

The Rafah border is the sole viable exit for Palestinians, necessitating permits and government registration, a process prolonged by the escalating conflict. Enter the “travel agents,” individuals purportedly working for Egyptian intelligence, who facilitate Palestinians’ movement. These agents, often found on social media, promise immediate travel for a fee. The charges start at $1200 per person and can result in departure within three days, though prices may have escalated since.

This disturbing trend is not unique to Palestine, as similar practices were witnessed among Rohingya and Syrian refugees. In times of hardship and uncertainty, people become susceptible to extortion, perpetuating a cycle of exploitation.