Rafah Border Crossing Reopens After Nearly Two Years in Near-Total Closure
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt is set to reopen following nearly two years of stringent restrictions, marking a pivotal step in the U.S.-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas. This critical crossing has long been a vital passage for individuals needing medical care and humanitarian aid, as well as a gateway for Gazans to the outside world.
Why It Matters
The Rafah border’s reopening carries significant implications for countless Palestinians caught in dire circumstances. An estimated 20,000 individuals in Gaza urgently require medical attention, while thousands in Egypt are hoping to return home. However, the initial flow of traffic will be limited, raising concerns about who will be able to cross and under what conditions.
Key Developments
- Testing Phase: Israel announced the reopening of Rafah as part of a testing process to assess operational capability. Starting Monday, the crossing will allow movement for residents in both directions under monitored conditions.
- Limited Capacity: Initially, only about 150 people per day will be permitted to cross, a figure that includes 50 medical patients and their companions, along with people returning to Gaza.
- Supervision: The European Union will oversee the entry and exit process at the border, ensuring compliance with established protocols.
- Emergency Needs: Reports indicate that a significant portion of those looking to cross are in serious medical need, with concerns that some may not survive the wait for treatment.
Full Report
Limited Movement
Although the Rafah crossing’s reopening is a positive development, its immediate impact appears limited. Israel has set a quota allowing only up to 150 individuals to cross daily. This includes 50 medical patients, each accompanied by two companions, alongside another 50 individuals returning to Gaza who left during the recent conflicts.
Potential Challenges
The slow pace of crossings raises urgent questions about the fate of those urgently seeking healthcare. Medical authorities in Gaza estimate that around 6,000 individuals are in need of urgent treatment. At the current crossing rate, it could take approximately four months for all to receive the necessary care, leading to fears that some may not survive the wait.
Official Statements
Zaher al-Wahidi, head of the Gaza health ministry’s documentation department, indicated that they had not yet received notifications regarding the commencement of medical evacuations. In contrast, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu affirmed a commitment to allowing patients to leave under strict vetting processes.
Continued Oversight
Crossers will be subject to scrutiny while also being monitored by European Union border agents, which may prolong the crossing time. As the system develops, authorities hope to increase the number of allowed crossers, contingent on a favorable assessment of its effectiveness.
Context & Previous Events
The Rafah crossing has faced restrictions since 2024, primarily due to security concerns from Israel regarding its use for smuggling. Following a recent ceasefire agreement brokered by the previous U.S. administration under Donald Trump, the reopening is seen as a key step in advancing peace talks. Earlier this month, actress Angelina Jolie visited Rafah for humanitarian efforts, highlighting the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza.
As Israel continues to conduct airstrikes, the significance of maintaining a route for essential humanitarian aid and medical assistance remains urgent for the beleaguered residents of Gaza.
