Gaza’s Rafah crossing with Egypt to reopen on Sunday, Israel says - Reuters

Gaza’s Rafah crossing with Egypt is set to reopen on Sunday after nearly two years of closure, according to Israel. This reopening is part of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement and is expected to allow limited pedestrian crossings in both directions. The Israeli Ministry of Defence body, COGAT, confirmed that movement of individuals would commence at that time. The reopening 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. On the first day of its reopening, only 12 Palestinians were reported to have entered Gaza through Rafah, while five patients and their escorts were allowed to leave for Egypt. Gaza’s health ministry indicated that approximately 20,000 people are currently waiting to leave for care. 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. The reopening of the Rafah crossing highlights the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians in Gaza. While it provides a lifeline for some, it does not fully address the humanitarian needs of the population. The situation remains precarious, with many still in urgent need of assistance and the crossing's operations expected to be limited.