By Xinhua
Gaza : Islamic Hamas movement on Saturday said Egypt shouldered responsibility to secure the arrival of Gaza Strip Muslim pilgrims into their home through the Egyptian territories.
“Egypt carries the complete responsibility over the pilgrims’ safety and their peaceful return to Gaza Strip,” said Yehia Moussa, a Hamas lawmaker.
About 2,000 pilgrims have been stuck in the water between Egypt and Jordan for more than 48 hours after the Egyptian authorities refused their entry unless they sign a pledge to go to Gaza through an Israeli-run crossing point.
“Even women and patients refused to sign such a pledge,” Moussa added.
Hamas, which rules Gaza Strip, arranged for the pilgrims departure from the Strip through Rafah crossing point on the Israeli-Palestinian border, making the first opening of the crossing which is closed since June when Hamas took over Gaza by force.
The departure of pilgrims apparently angered Israel and embarrassed Egypt.
The pilgrims include officials from Hamas and other Palestinian militant groups who fear of being arrested when returning home via Israeli crossings.