Angelina Jolie Advocates for Humanitarian Aid During Visit to Egypt
Angelina Jolie's Humanitarian Mission in Egypt
On Friday, Hollywood star and former UN Refugee Agency special envoy Angelina Jolie visited the Rafah Crossing in Egypt as part of her humanitarian efforts, according to her representatives. This visit occurs amidst Israel's recent decision to suspend operations of various aid organizations in the Gaza Strip.
Jolie's trip coincides with Israel's announcement to halt the activities of numerous aid groups that have not updated their registrations. The new regulations require the submission of personal information about staff members working in Gaza, raising significant safety concerns for humanitarian organizations.
In her statement, Jolie mentioned that she had engaged with aid agencies facing challenges in delivering assistance to Gaza. She toured a large warehouse filled with supplies, primarily medical items, that had been denied entry.
“I spoke to humanitarian agencies striving to navigate the restrictions and obstacles in delivering essential aid to Gaza. The warehouse was filled with items that were not allowed in, most of which were medical supplies,” Jolie stated.
During her visit, she also met with aid workers from the Egyptian Red Crescent and other local organizations to explore ways to enhance humanitarian support for Gaza. She emphasized the critical need for sustained access, urging that the ceasefire must remain intact and that aid delivery should be increased swiftly and safely.
“It is clear what needs to happen: the ceasefire must be maintained, and access must be safe, sustained, and urgently increased so that aid, fuel, and essential medical supplies can flow quickly and consistently at the necessary volume,” Jolie asserted.
“Winter supplies and vital medical equipment should be allowed to move without delay. Each day of disruption results in loss of life,” she added, expressing her appreciation for the volunteers providing humanitarian aid.
Additionally, Jolie is meeting with Palestinian and Sudanese refugee families in Egypt as part of her ongoing humanitarian efforts, as stated by her office.