Palestinian Minister of Health Maged Abu Ramadan said there is no indication that "Israel" will reopen the Rafah border crossing soon, urging states to increase pressure on the Israeli government to let in aid and fuel. 

"This is totally in the hands of the Israelis," Abu Ramadan said at a meeting in Geneva with the Association of the Accredited Correspondents to the United Nations (ACANU).

Abu Ramadan explained that even before the occupation and closure of the crossing, the Israeli regime was preventing the crossing of many patients seeking healthcare outside the Gaza Strip. 

He noted that the crossing's closure "complicated the picture" for humanitarian aid and medical evacuations.

"Those needing treatment outside Gaza are now unable to reach Egypt or other locations for care," he said. "This is a crime against humanity, regardless of the number of casualties."

"Currently, people are deprived of almost all health services," he added.

Regarding the recognition of Palestine as a state by Spain, Ireland, and Norway, Abu Ramadan praised these nations, calling it a "courageous decision" and expressing gratitude. He stated that this move would have a "significant political, positive impact on the Palestinian cause, wherever it is discussed."

"I urge all other European countries to follow this brave example," he said.

Read more: Gaza-bound food left to rot in the sun amid Israeli closure of Rafah

'Israel's' occupation of Rafah crossing detrimental to Palestinians

The Israeli military occupied the Rafah border crossing after invading the southernmost city of the Gaza Strip in early May. The action cut off all humanitarian aid and the movement of persons into and out of the Gaza Strip.

Being that the crossing is the only pathway linking the Palestinian territory to another country, Egypt, its closure has had detrimental effects on the Palestinian population. With hospitals' work being affected, not to mention the constant threat of them being put out of service due to energy shortages, with injured people and patients who cannot leave the besieged territory for treatment, and supplies of humanitarian aid being heavily reduced. 

The action has also led to border skirmishes with the Egyptian army, which led to the martyrdom of two soldiers.

Read more: Fait accompli policy regarding Rafah border crossing rejected: Egypt