Egyptian security forces have forcibly removed hundreds of international activists attempting to deliver humanitarian aid to Gaza, blocking the "Global March to Gaza" at the Rafah border crossing. Authorities detained participants from over forty countries, citing national security concerns while confiscating passports and deporting activists from France, Canada, Spain, Turkey and the United Kingdom.

Around four thousand people from more than forty countries had coordinated this civil society initiative, planning a fifty-kilometer trek to demand opening a permanent humanitarian corridor into Gaza. Egyptian forces detained approximately two hundred activists in Cairo hotels and checkpoints, with some reporting aggressive tactics during deportations.

This crackdown extends beyond Egypt's borders, with Libyan authorities also stopping activist convoys. The timing proves critical as Gaza faces its worst humanitarian crisis, with over two million residents facing famine conditions. Egypt controls the Rafah crossing, making Cairo's position crucial for relief efforts.

The incident highlights limits facing civil society in authoritarian environments and creates diplomatic friction between Egypt and affected nations.

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Citations:
https://www.newindianexpress.c....om/world/2025/Jun/14