Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an official statement on Wednesday addressing the “Al-Somoud” convoy, which set off from Tunisia en route to the Egyptian border with the Gaza Strip, as part of a broader effort to challenge the blockade on the Palestinian enclave.

In the statement, Egypt welcomed all international and regional efforts—both official and popular—that support Palestinian rights and reject what it described as Israel’s “blatant and systematic violations” against civilians in Gaza.

The ministry also emphasized the importance of prior coordination and official approval for any foreign delegations planning to visit border areas, particularly Al-Arish and the Rafah crossing, to express solidarity with the Palestinian cause.

“In light of growing requests and inquiries regarding visits to the Gaza-adjacent areas, Egypt stresses the need for advance coordination and appropriate authorization before any field visits to the border zone,” the statement read.

The clarification comes as multiple solidarity convoys from Arab and international organizations make their way toward Gaza, calling for the end of the siege and unrestricted humanitarian access.