Jakarta, ThedailyID — Seven-time Formula 1 world champion Lewis Hamilton has spoken out about the humanitarian crisis in Gaza after visiting Egypt to support Palestinian relief efforts.
Hamilton joined humanitarian activities in El Arish, northern Egypt, on Wednesday, November 11. The city lies near the Gaza border.
The British racing driver also helped prepare aid packages for Palestinians facing severe restrictions in the territory.
Hamilton said the suffering he witnessed deeply affected him. Rather than remain silent, he used his platform to draw attention to the crisis.
“The genocide committed by Israel in Gaza over the past three years has been horrific. It is an injustice when people lose their freedom, safety, and dignity. No one should treat human lives as though some matter less than others,” Hamilton wrote on Instagram.
He also described a wall stretching for miles, which he said confines Palestinians.
“Standing there, outside what feels like an open-air prison, I could only think about how to get inside and help,” he added.
Hamilton Calls for Rafah Border to Reopen
Hamilton also described conditions near the Rafah crossing. Trucks carrying food stood in long lines, waiting to deliver supplies to Gaza.
However, authorities often denied entry to these trucks or subjected them to lengthy delays.
Hamilton spoke with one truck driver who had reportedly waited in line for 12 hours. Meanwhile, a logistics center still held sleeping bags, first-aid kits, medical equipment, and footballs for children.
The British driver urged Israel to reopen the Rafah crossing and allow humanitarian supplies from Egypt into Gaza.
His appeal came as heavy rain and worsening weather threatened to flood displacement camps.
“Israel must fulfill its obligations under the ceasefire agreement and allow aid trucks to enter. There is no excuse,” he wrote.
Hamilton also acknowledged the frustration of people who want to help but feel powerless to change the situation.
“I know many people feel that same helplessness—the desire to do something rather than simply sit back and watch. I don’t want us to become accustomed to their suffering. I don’t want us to turn away,” he added.
