First Norwegian citizens are allowed to leave Gaza

Norwegian Prime Minister Jonas Gahr Støre said Wednesday he was very happy that the first Norwegian citizens have arrived on the Egyptian side of the border with Gaza.

Norway had been informed that 51 Norwegians could leave Gaza via the border crossing at Rafah.

Foreign Minister Espen Barth Eide said, “there are no safe places in Gaza, and everyone who is there is exposed to traumatic experiences.” Barth Eide said the situation in Gaza was “a humanitarian disaster, which also affects Norwegian citizens. The acts of war must stop and humanitarian aid must be allowed in.” According to Norwegian news agency NTB, there are about 270 people with ties to Norway in Gaza with approximately half of them children. (AP)