Gaza border crossing due to reopen after years of near-complete closure

Gaza’s Rafah border crossing with Egypt has partially reopened after years of near-complete closure, marking a significant development as part of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. The reopening is seen as a key step in facilitating limited travel to and from Gaza. On the first day of its reopening, only 12 Palestinians entered Gaza through Rafah, while five patients and their escorts were allowed to leave for Egypt (Al Jazeera). The crossing is expected to begin operations fully on Monday, according to the Israeli Ministry of Defence body, COGAT, which stated that movement of individuals in both directions would commence at that time (Reuters). The Rafah crossing offers a rare opportunity for many Palestinians, including patients, students, and displaced families, who have been waiting for months to cross for medical treatment, education, and aid. Gaza’s health ministry reports that approximately 20,000 people are currently waiting to leave for care (France24). However, despite the reopening, access remains highly restricted, and Israel continues to control the Palestinian side of the crossing. Humanitarian aid flows into Gaza remain extremely limited, with no indication from COGAT regarding a significant increase in aid supplies (France24). The reopening of the Rafah crossing does not fully address the humanitarian needs of the population in Gaza. While it allows for some movement, the situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians in the region. The limited number of crossings and the continued control by Israel highlight the complexities surrounding the humanitarian situation in Gaza, as many individuals remain in urgent need of assistance and opportunities to leave the territory.