Joyce Noach

Lewis Hamilton accuses Israel of “genocide” after visiting Rafah border crossing with Egypt. The Formula 1 driver has accused Israel of making Gaza an “open-air prison” while staying silent on Egypt’s border wall having up to 7 layers to prevent Palestinians from leaving. “The past three years of Israel’s genocide in Gaza is appalling. It’s an injustice for people to being denied their freedom, their safety and their dignity. No human being should be treated as though their life matters less. I saw walls stretching for miles, built to keep them in. Standing there, outside what felt like an open-air prison, all I could think about was getting in to help. At Rafah border, I saw food trucks lined up ready to go, but they’re regularly not allowed in or face major delays. The first driver in line that I spoke to had already been waiting over 12 hours. At the nearby logistics centre, I saw the hard work of the aid workers, but I also saw what gets rejected for crazy reasons. Sleeping bags, first aid kits, medical equipment, wheelchairs, even footballs for kids. Israel needs to fulfil its obligations under the ceasefire and let the aid trucks in. No excuse. I know so many people feel that same helplessness. That same need to do something rather than just watch. I don’t want us to get used to their suffering. I don’t want us to look away.”