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Crystal blockchain analytics firm sets up office in UAE

Crystal blockchain analytics firm sets up office in UAE

Crystal a blockchain analytics, compliance and risk monitoring firm, has opened their new office at the Dubai World Trade Centre, emphasizing the firm’s commitment to supporting the more than 1,400 Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs) in the region.

As per the press release, Crystal, which currently works with notable Dubai-based virtual asset firms, will leverage its new space to expand its operations and deliver high-touch service to the fast-growing crypto industry in Dubai and the Middle East.

Navin Gupta, CEO of Crystal, a previous executive at Ripple, who will be based in the new Dubai office, shared his vision for the new office: “UAE with its progressive regulations is poised to become the Crypto Capital of the world. With our blockchain intelligence expertise, we want to empower licensed firms to keep themselves and their customers safe. Hence, we have chosen DWTC as our home for the region and I have decided to be based in the UAE. Proximity with our customers enables us to undertake R&D and bring new and region-specific products to market.“

Currently, Crystal works with government regulators, crypto institutions, and law enforcement across the EU, APAC, Middle East and US regions. Crystal plans to work closely with licensed entities in the UAE abiding by VARA regulations, to enhance their market compliance infrastructure and promote a secure, regulated digital asset marketplace.

As the digital asset space evolves, regulation remains a central theme, especially in areas like anti-money laundering (AML), counter-terrorist financing, and the stability of financial markets. Recent global shifts towards enhancing regulatory frameworks emphasizes the overarching interest in a harmonized approach to oversight. This initiative marks a significant step forward in aligning international standards with regional oversight capabilities, setting a precedent for future regulatory developments in the virtual assets space.

Hex Trust receives full crypto brokerage and staking license from Dubai’s regulator

Hex Trust receives full crypto brokerage and staking license from Dubai’s regulator

Hex Trust Group, a provider of digital asset solutions for institutional finance, protocols, foundations, and the Web3 ecosystem, has secured its fully operational Virtual Asset Service Provider (VASP) license, for crypto brokerage, management, investment and crypto staking from the Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA) in Dubai. This second license extends to its VA Broker-Dealer and VA Management and Investment arm, HT Markets MENA FZE. VARA had announced on its website previously that Hext Trust had received this license but it was pending full fulfillment of all requirements.

Hex Trust received its first VASP license back in November 2023, allowing it to provide virtual asset (crypto) custodial services to institutional clients and sophisticated investors.

With this second license Hex Trust will be able to offer comprehensive Virtual Asset services covering Broker-Dealer and Management and Investment Services, which includes regulated Staking Services.

When asked by Lara on the Block, why Hex Trust has chosen the UAE and Dubai to be licensed, Filippo Buzzi, Regional Director for MENA noted, “Hex Trust operates within jurisdictions known for their robust investor protections and progressive regulatory environments, spanning across Hong Kong, Singapore, Dubai, Italy, and France. In the UAE and Dubai, Virtual Assets Service Providers (VASPs) benefit from an environment characterized by supportive regulations, strategic positioning, tax advantages, an investor-friendly atmosphere, and advanced technology. As the crypto industry continues to develop, the UAE’s proactive stance towards growth positions it as an attractive destination for crypto businesses, offering significant opportunities in this rapidly evolving sector.”

As per the press release, Hex Trust Markets offers safe access to the DeFi ecosystem, where clients can generate yield with native on-chain staking solutions and execute trades with the support of Hex Trust’s dedicated Markets team. Key offerings include:

  • A global trading team with dedicated client support providing 24/7 trading coverage.
  • OTC trading solutions across the full spectrum of Virtual Assets, including tailored sales / purchase programs to optimize across Price, Time Horizon and Market Impact, employing proprietary execution algorithms to support bespoke execution strategies.
  • Deep liquidity and broad access within the Virtual Asset Markets.
  • Risk Management solutions catering to corporate treasury risk management requirements.
  • Fiat Solutions facilitating on-ramp / off-ramp services.

Filippo Buzzi adds, “The approval of this additional VASP license demonstrates Hex Trust’s commitment to fostering crypto ecosystem innovation and enabling safe market access in the Middle East. We are fully committed to expanding into the region and see enormous potential for digital asset growth given the progressive regulations, welcoming governments, and thriving crypto ecosystem.”

Speaking to Lara on the Block on the growth of crypto assets market in MENA, Buzzi stated, “UAE, GCC, and the broader MENA region represents a promising market for Hex Trust, largely due to a growing ecosystem supported by a clear regulatory framework and a forward-thinking approach to digital finance. Dubai, in particular, has established itself as a global blockchain hub, supporting the growth of the crypto assets industry. VARA, the first independent regulator for virtual assets, played a key role to position Dubai as a regional and international hub for Virtual Assets.”

“Hex Trust’s commitment to compliance and regulation has always been a priority, and this has earned us a reputable standing as a reliable partner for both crypto-native and traditional finance institutions. There is so much potential in the Emirate of Dubai and the issuance of the VASP license for Hex Trust Markets demonstrates the evolution of our digital asset service provision to meet the demands of our clients and the market.” – Alessio Quaglini, Co-Founder and CEO of Hex Trust.

So far VARA has licensed 12 crypto broker VASPs, and only one VASP which offers custody services and that is Hex Trust. Noteworthy that only Komainu offers custodial staking services.

Dubai’s DIFC Regulatory authority now allows crypto asset investment and stablecoins

Dubai’s DIFC Regulatory authority now allows crypto asset investment and stablecoins

The Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) the regulatory arm of DIFC ( Dubai International Financial Center) has amended its crypto token regime. These changes stem from the proposals outlined in Consultation Paper 153 – Updates to the Crypto Token regime published in January 2024.

According to the press release, this marks a significant step in refining and advancing the regulatory environment for Crypto Tokens in the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC).

Amendments are related to the following areas, funds, custody, recognition of crypto tokens and financial crime

In terms of funds DFSRA now allows the offering of units of external and foreign funds investing in recognized crypto tokens, as well as the ability for domestic qualified investor funds to invest in unrecognized crypto tokens. Minimum individual investment in fund is $50,000. The Fund’s investment in Crypto Tokens is limited to Recognized Crypto Tokens and does not exceed 20% of the gross asset value of the Fund.

Firms can offer custodial and staking services as per the amendment but they cannot offer lending services. Cited in the document, ” An Authorized Firm must not offer or provide any facility or service that allows a Client to lend a Crypto Token to the Authorized Firm or to another person unless it is reasonably satisfied that:. (2) The restriction in (1) does not apply to: (a) an Authorized Firm that is authorized to Provide Custody, if: (i) the Crypto Token is not a Prohibited Token; (ii) the Authorized Firm is reasonably satisfied that: (a)(A) the Client is a Professional Client or Market Counterparty; and (b)(B) the lending is solely for the purpose of staking.; and (iii) the requirements in (3) have been met”

An Authorized Firm must be able to demonstrate to the DFSA’s satisfaction the grounds upon which the Authorized Firm considers the Third Party Agent or a non DIFC custodian to be suitable to hold Safe Custody Investments or Safe Custody Crypto Tokens.

In addition DFSA has replaced its previous Anti-Money Laundering, Counter-Terrorist Financing and Sanctions Module (AML) – (AML/VER25/05-24) is repealed and has been replaced by Appendix 1 to this instrument and may be identified by the following reference – (AML/VER26/06-24). VASPs will have to comply with Federal Cabinet Resolution No. 10 of 2019 requirements under Federal AML legislation to Virtual Asset Service Providers (VASPs), in addition to Financial Institutions and DNFBPs. The DFSA’s AML regime applies in addition to the Federal AML legislation.

In terms of NFTs and utility tokens, the DFSA has excluded a Non-Fungible Token (NFT) and a Utility Token from its Crypto Token definition where such a Token meets specified criteria. However The DFSA has prescribed in AML Rule 3.2.1 that a person who carries on the business or profession of issuing or providing services related to a NFT or Utility Token is a DNFBP. An exclusion applies, in the case of an issuer, if the value of each NFT or Utility Token issued is less than $15,000 and, in the case of a service provider, if the service is IT support or advice to an issuer.

VASPs will have to adhere to AML requirements of the government of the U.A.E. or any government departments in the U.A.E.; the Central Bank of the U.A.E.; the FIU; the National Anti-Money Laundering and Combating Financing of Terrorism And Financing of Illegal Organizations Committee (NAMLCFTC); FATF; U.A.E. enforcement agencies; and the DFSA.

DFSA also recognized stablecoins which it called Fiat crypto tokens. DFSA does not consider privacy tokens or algorithmic tokens as recognized.

As noted, ” if Fiat Crypto Token, all of the requirements are met in respect of that Fiat Crypto Token including the matters referred to the regulatory status of the Crypto Token in other jurisdictions, including whether it has been assessed or approved for use by a Regulator in another Recognized Jurisdiction; whether there is adequate transparency relating to the Crypto Token, including sufficient detail about its purpose, protocols, consensus mechanism, governance arrangements, founders, key persons, miners and significant holders; the size, liquidity and volatility of the market for the Crypto Token globally; the adequacy and suitability of the technology used in connection with the Crypto Token and whether risks associated with the Crypto Token are adequately mitigated, including risks relating to governance, legal and regulatory issues, cybersecurity, money laundering, market abuse and other financial crime.

These changes are based on recent market developments, recommendations from international standard-setters and the DFSA’s supervisory experience.

Over the past two years, the DFSA has engaged with over 100 firms looking to be licensed, gaining valuable insights into the market dynamics and regulatory needs.

Ian Johnston, Chief Executive of the DFSA, said: “Our objective with the Crypto Token regime is to foster innovation in a responsible and transparent manner while ensuring we meet our regulatory objectives. At the DFSA, we have taken a balanced approach in the development of this regime and remain committed to evolving it in line with global best practices and standards.”

Noteworthy is that the amendments did not cover insurance which was mentioned in January in the consultation paper.

Qatar tests CBDC for settlement of large payments

Qatar tests CBDC for settlement of large payments

 The Qatar Central Bank (QCB) has announced the completion of the development of the infrastructure for the Central Bank Digital Currency Project (CBDC) and the commencement of testing of CBDC for settlement of large payments with local banks. According to the press release, this initiative will serve as a proactive step to keep pace with the rapid global developments in this field.

Qatar Central Bank confirms that, after successfully completing the comprehensive study conducted in this field, it will proceed with testing and developing selected applications for the CBDC to settle large payments with a group of local and international banks in a trial environment designed according to the latest advanced technologies.

The project will focus on the applications of the CBDC to increase access to capital markets for operating banks in the country, enhance domestic settlement, and improve the efficiency of securities transactions.

This project, which will enter its first experimental phase extending to October 2024, aims to achieve a set of primary objectives, including leveraging artificial intelligence technologies, distributed ledger technology (DLT), and emerging technologies and establish a strong foundation to enhance liquidity by expanding participation in financial market facilities, considering the aspects related to information security during project implementation.

In line with the Third Financial Sector Strategy, the Fintech Strategy, and Qatar National Vision 2030, and based on Qatar Central Bank’s ongoing efforts to regulate and develop the financial sector in the country, Qatar Central Bank announced the completion of the development of the infrastructure for the Central Bank Digital Currency Project (CBDC), QCB said in a press release.

This project reflects Qatar Central Bank’s full commitment to contributing to digital transformation within the financial sector, noting in this context that the start of the CBDC project represents an important milestone and a strategic step towards building a digital economy in the country.

It was also noted that the results of this experiment will be the cornerstone towards identifying the different use cases that the Qatar Central Bank will adopt in the future, which will contribute to enhancing the efficiency of the current systems and instant settlement.

In April 2023 Qatar Financial Centre Authority and Blockchain solution provider R3 signed an MOU to develop and grow Qatar’s fintech industry using technologies such as DLT (Distributed Ledger Technology). Soon after, QFC announced one of the biggest digital assets initiatives in the country and the GCC region, the Qatar Innovation Dome for digital assets. The digital assets lab will develop tokenization platforms and ecosystems for everything that has value whether tangible assets or intangible assets including real estate assets, securities, Sukuk, bonds and others in the future utilizing DLT ( distributed ledger technologies), blockchain, and smart contracts.

In May 2024 The Hashgraph Association (THA), the Swiss-based organization at the forefront of global digital enablement, signed a strategic partnership with the Qatar Financial Centre to launch a Digital Assets Venture Studio, a platform to support local Qatari and international portfolio companies in the development of regulatory-compliant decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions and digital assets built on the Hedera Distributed Ledger Technology (DLT) network.


The $50 million digital assets venture studio will focus on investments in Hedera-powered Web3 startups and enterprises building bankable DeFi solutions. The program will span over the next five years (2024-2028) with The Hashgraph Association investing $10million (20%).

Uniramp crypto aggregator enters MENA with TDeFi and DMCC

Uniramp crypto aggregator enters MENA with TDeFi and DMCC

Uniramp a fiat-to-crypto aggregator, has been selected by TDeFi accelerator program, a premier Web3 incubator and accelerator in collaboration with the Dubai Multi Commodities Centre (DMCC) and Elysium Chain, marking Uniramp’s strategic entry into the Middle East market.

The TDeFi accelerator program is renowned for supporting innovative Web3 startups and providing them with the resources, mentorship, and networking opportunities needed to scale. Being part of this program will enable Uniramp to leverage the extensive network and expertise of DMCC and Elysium Chain, further enhancing its growth and impact in the region.

Uniramp’s entry into the Middle East represents a significant milestone in its mission to simplify Web3 access and fiat-crypto conversions. The region’s forward-thinking approach to blockchain technology and rapidly growing market make it an ideal environment for Uniramp’s innovative solutions.

“We are incredibly excited to join the TDeFi accelerator program and begin our journey in the Middle East,” said Salman Aljohar, CEO, Uniramp. “This opportunity allows us to tap into a vibrant ecosystem of innovation and collaboration, aligning perfectly with our vision to make Web3 accessible to all.”

Through its participation in the accelerator, Uniramp aims to forge meaningful connections with key stakeholders in the Middle East’s crypto and blockchain sectors. These collaborations are expected to enhance the liquidity and accessibility of crypto assets, providing users with a seamless and user-friendly experience.

“We believe that collaboration is at the heart of growth in the blockchain industry,” Salman Aljohar continued. “By engaging with the local ecosystem, we look forward to bringing more value to our users and contributing to the region’s blockchain advancements.”

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Cristiano Ronaldo and Binance launch Road to Saudi Arabia NFT collection

Cristiano Ronaldo and Binance launch Road to Saudi Arabia NFT collection

Cristiano Ronaldo has released his fourth NFT ( Non Fungible token) collection under the theme Road to Saudi Arabia. The NFT collection is in partnership with Binance. The exclusive NFT collection will be available only on the Binance NFT Marketplace.

As per Binance blog the campaign will run betwee May 29th and July 15th 2024, with the sales period ending on June 18th 2024.

The collection showcases seven unique NFTs, each representing a significant location in Cristiano Ronaldo’s decorated career — Madeira, Lisbon, Manchester, Madrid, Turin, Saudi Arabia and Portugal. Collectors can collect and earn utilities and rewards based on the number of unique NFTs they own from the collection.

The Road to Saudi Arabia” collection is as follows:

Madeira (2,800 Normal NFTs), Lisbon (2,300 Normal NFTs), & Manchester (1,700 Normal NFTs)

2024-06-06 14:00 (UTC) – 2024-06-18 23:59:59 (UTC)

Madrid (1,200 Normal NFTs), Turin (800 Normal NFTs), & Saudi Arabia (700 Normal NFTs)

2024-06-14 14:00 (UTC) – 2024-06-18 23:59:59 (UTC)

Portugal (7 Super Super Rare NFTs)

Note that while the number of Normal NFTs for each location differs, the price will be the same: 35 USDT (35 USD).

A total of four different rarity levels are available — Super Super Rare (SSR), Super Rare (SR), Rare (R), and Normal (N), and each rarity level will come with its own utility and benefits for NFT holders, as per the table below.

Dubai courts introduce transparent digital system for enforcing judgements

Dubai courts introduce transparent digital system for enforcing judgements

Dubai Courts has announced today the launch of “Tanfeeth+” program. This program sets a groundbreaking standard for digital integration and efficiency in providing judgment enforcement services by establishing a seamless, transparent, and integrated ecosystem that benefits all parties involved.

His Excellency Prof. Dr. Saif Ghanem Al Suwaidi, Director General of Dubai Courts, said, “This program is part of a comprehensive digital initiative to enhance the efficiency of the judicial enforcement ecosystem, aligning with the vision and directives of His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, for Dubai to become the world’s fastest, the best and the fairest in judicial services.” His Excellency underscored Dubai Court’s thorough examination of the challenges facing judicial enforcement services and processes, leading to the adoption of Tanfeeth+.

Tanfeeth+ operates across five key impact pillars: Efficiency and Digitalization, Speed and Agility, Transparency and Information Sharing, Collaboration with Partners, and Legal Compliance. This program exemplifies Dubai Courts’ commitment to improving service levels, supporting government directives, and enhancing the judicial system’s efficiency, transparency, and justice.

His Excellency Judge Khalid Al Mansouri, Head of the Execution Court at Dubai Courts, emphasized that Tanfeeth+ reflects Dubai Courts’ vision to be pioneering and internationally distinguished, fostering efficient legislation implementation and offering advanced judicial services.

The strategic plan aims to achieve swift justice, enhance confidence in the judicial system, promote social and economic stability, and improve enforcement efficiency. It establishes a digitally integrated environment to streamline operations, improve service quality, and save time and effort.

Initiatives under Tanfeeth+ include:
• Digital Writ of Execution Seal: Facilitates the enforcement of court rulings, enabling the petitioner to initiate procedures without the need to visit service centres.
• Disclosure Platform: Allows the enforcement judge to directly inquire about the respondent’s assets and seize them for sale if necessary.
• Integration with MOI: Ensures the enforcement of liberty-restricting orders, travel bans, and asset seizures by integrating with the MOI’s programme.
• Digital Requests: Optimises execution procedures and automates administrative decisions.
• Sale Notification System: Notifies officials about confiscated items for timely sale.
• Automated Cancellation of Enforcement: Cancels enforcement procedures and lifts seizures once payments are completed.
• Automated Disbursement System: Automatically disburses amounts deposited in the enforcement file to the petitioner’s registered bank account.
• Virtual Bank Accounts: Enables direct deposits of seized assets into virtual accounts for automatic disbursement to each party.

UAE Blockchain venture capital firm partners with Landvault for AI metaverse innovations

UAE Blockchain venture capital firm partners with Landvault for AI metaverse innovations

 UAE Blockchain and technology venture capital firm , Masary Capital has partnered with Landvault, a tech company specializing in AI-powered immersive experiences and digital twins for Fortune 500 companies and government organizations.

Masary Capital is led by Mr. Khalil Abdulla of the Wafi Group conglomerate and features an esteemed board, including Meshal Abdullah Bin Hussain, Chief Information Officer at the UAE Ministry of Finance, along with many other industry experts.

Masary Capital aims to accelerate companies by serving as a bridge for innovative enterprises that align with the region’s strategic goals.

Landvault has a portfolio featuring collaborations with the Abu Dhabi Government, Yas Marina Circuit, various Dubai ministries, the Saudi Government, sovereign funds, and private enterprises across the MENA region. The company continues to lead technological advancements in immersive experiences and AI-powered digital twins.

These experiences are leveraged by government entities for a variety of purposes, including marketing, promotion, and internal analytics. They align with the Dubai Metaverse Strategy established by the government of Dubai in 2022, which aims to position Dubai as one of the world’s top 10 metaverse economies and a global hub for the metaverse community.

At a private event in April 2024, Landvault unveiled their new tech stack designed to build immersive experiences. This includes an AI creation tool that accelerates the production of digital environments, a publishing platform that deploys digital twins on the web in minutes, and a comprehensive analytics platform.

“Joining forces with Masary and Mr. Khalil is a great achievement for Landvault and will accelerate our go-to market and ability to drive change in the public and private sector of the MENA region. Having their backing is a great vote of confidence” says Sam Huber, CEO of Landvault.

“We are impressed with Landvault’s commitment to the region and their innovative technology. We’re excited to partner with them to accelerate the rollout of this technology across the region,” says Khalil Abdulla, CEO at Masary Capital.

UAE regulated crypto broker GCEX to offer enhanced liquidity solution

UAE regulated crypto broker GCEX to offer enhanced liquidity solution

UAE regulated GCEX crypto has partnered with DV Chain a provider of liquidity and market-making services in the dynamic world of cryptocurrencies allowing GCEX clients to benefit from DV Chain’s exceptional crypto liquidity offering, with even tighter spreads and reduced execution costs.

Through this partnership, GCEX will provide enhanced brokerage services for spot cryptocurrency transactions, delivering unparalleled access to deep liquidity through its professional 24/7 service. Designed specifically for institutional clients, this offering is accessible through GCEX’s crypto-native platform – XplorSpot – or via API, facilitating the wider adoption of digital assets across institutions and professional traders.

Michael Aagaard, Managing Director, GCEX commented, “We are thrilled to expand our liquidity offering in digital assets through our partnership with DV Chain, one of the most advanced, globally recognized crypto market makers. As demand for deep liquidity in digital assets from institutional clients continues to rise, this partnership reinforces GCEX’s position as a leading regulated brokerage, delivering superior global crypto CFDs liquidity.”

Michael Rabkin, Global Head of Business Development, DV Chain commented, “We are excited to be working with GCEX, a leading global crypto brokerage, to enhance liquidity for their institutional clients. This collaboration allows us to bring our advanced crypto liquidity solutions to a broader audience, helping provide tighter spreads and reduced execution costs. Together with GCEX, we are committed to supporting the growing demand for efficient and reliable digital asset trading.”

Crypto and Blockchain at the heart of Gaza donations

Crypto and Blockchain at the heart of Gaza donations

People across the globe and in the Arab world are utilizing cryptocurrencies to help those in dire need in Gaza, whether it is utilizing “Care for Gaza” or the “International Rescue Committee” supported by ENS or even UNRWA.

On May 15th, over $20,000 USD was raised through crypto donations by @RESCUEorg better known as the International Rescue Committee (IRC) to deliver humanitarian aid in Gaza. This was done with the support of ENS the most widely integrated blockchain naming standard.

On X, ENS stated, “We’re proud to announce that ENS is supporting the International Rescue Committee.”

According to ENS, “This collaboration represents a significant step in leveraging blockchain technology for social good. To help and make an impact: donate with irc.eth.”

It’s important to note that the IRC itself doesn’t directly accept cryptocurrency donations. As per their website, the IRC protects itself from crypto volatility by engaging with partners (endaoment.org & every.org) who accept crypto on its behalf, settling cryptocurrency into FIAT currency which is then provided to the IRC in a compliant manner. The IRC currently does not directly accept cryptocurrency via its website and owned channels.

The IRC partners with Endaoment and Every.org. These platforms convert crypto donations into fiat currency (traditional money) before providing it to the IRC.

But IRC is not the only one accepting crypto payments to help Gaza. Care for Gaza noted in an X post, that Egyptians can now support them using Vodafone Cash. Earlier Care for Gaza also noted that individuals could pay in crypto as they were raising funds for flour. They noted, “We are currently focusing on providing flour bags to the displaced families.

Even UNRWA is accepting crypto donations to https://unrwausa.org/crypto

OXFAM US is also accepting crypto to help the people of Gaza. On their website they stated, “We accept Bitcoin and a wide variety of cryptocurrencies through The Giving Block, a platform that processes crypto donations for nonprofits. Use the widget above to make your donation: Under “Select Your Crypto” select the type of crypto to donate from the dropdown. Enter your donation amount in the crypto of your choice or USD. Fill out your name and address (optional), and enter an email address where you would like to receive a tax receipt.

They add as well that “Cryptocurrency donations will be automatically converted to dollars for immediate use to support communities around the world.”

Oxfam’s UnBlocked Cash project (UBC) is a blockchain-powered cash transfer solution that is set to tackle this challenge. It is saving costs of distributing aid, reducing delivery times, and bringing more transparency and accountability in the process. It offers an opportunity to improve how aid is delivered without compromising the dignity of beneficiaries.

This need for aid donations has become more pressing with the Israeli onslaught in Rafah. On May 28th, The International Rescue Committee (IRC) in a blog post stated “We horrified by the multiple Israeli air strikes and bombardment that have so far killed at least 60 Palestinians and injured dozens more, including women and children, in Rafah. These attacks have resulted in the largest number of casualties since the Rafah incursion began and they come a few days after the International Court of Justice ordered Israel to stop its offensive on the city. These devastating attacks occurred on Sunday night, in an area housing displaced people where tents caught fire, with a further attack today in a supposed safe zone.”

Kiryn Lanning, IRC’s Team Lead in the occupied Palestinian territory (oPt), said, “We are deeply outraged by the tragic loss of civilian life as the Israeli incursion into Rafah intensifies. These incidents reaffirm our repeated warnings that no place and nobody is safe in Gaza. Camps housing displaced people must never be targeted. The reports from the ground are extremely disturbing – with people trapped in the fire and burning tents.

“There was not a single evacuation order for these attacks given to civilians that have sought shelter in Rafah after being displaced from other parts of Gaza. The targeting of so-called safe zones, densely populated with displaced civilians, is a violation of International Humanitarian Law and completely unjustifiable. The high concentration of civilians in these zones makes it impossible to avoid significant collateral damage and high mortality rates during military offensives, even with precision targeting.

As if bombardment was not enough, The United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) has suspended food distributions in Rafah due to shortages. Only ten bakeries remain operational in Gaza but are imperiled and may soon run out of cooking fuel. The WHO Director General has called the situation “beyond catastrophic.”

In March 2024 UAE announced that it would allow Bitcoin and crypto donations to specified entities during Ramadan.

If blockchain and crypto was ever needed it is needed today and can be used, not only to make sure that donations reach Gaza but also make sure that these donations are tracked transparently.