Israel reopens Gaza’s key Rafah border crossing with Egypt
Palestinians have begun to use the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, which has reopened after being largely closed since May 2024 due to Israeli military control.
This reopening aligns with the early phases of US President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas.
It had been delayed until the return of the last Israeli hostage in Gaza, which occurred recently. The crossing is viewed as a critical lifeline for many Palestinians, although frustrations arise from the limitations on the number of individuals and goods allowed to pass.
Reports indicate that approximately 20,000 sick and wounded individuals are awaiting medical treatment outside Gaza, yet only 50 patients, with one or two relatives, will be permitted to exit daily, while a similar number of individuals who previously left during the conflict may return.
The crossing will be managed with oversight from European Union supervisors alongside local Palestinian staff, with Israel conducting remote security checks.
An Israeli official confirmed that the Rafah crossing has reopened for the movement of residents. Additionally, Egyptian media have reported the return of Palestinians from Egypt to Gaza, indicating a broader effort to facilitate crossings.
One poignant account details Sabrine al-Da’ma’s desperate wish to transport her ailing daughter, Rawa, for necessary kidney treatment, emphasizing the critical health crisis exacerbated by the ongoing conflict.
Earlier this week, trial openings occurred, with several Palestinian staff arriving at the Egyptian side. The World Health Organization is tasked with organizing the transfer of patients from territories under Hamas to the crossing, navigating through Israel-controlled areas.
The framework for the Rafah crossing’s operation is tied to previous ceasefire agreements, and before its capture by Israeli forces, it served as a significant entry point for humanitarian aid, with current humanitarian aid efforts rerouted through Israel’s Kerem Shalom crossing.
Egyptian authorities have stated that the Rafah crossing would only function adequately if allowed to operate in both directions, reflecting ongoing tensions and operational challenges in the region.
More than 30,000 Gazans have registered with the Palestinian embassy in Cairo to be allowed to return to Gaza.
The crossing’s opening was delayed due to the Israeli government making it conditional on Hamas handing over the body of the last dead Israeli hostage in Gaza.
