Reopening of Gaza's Rafah crossing expected Monday, officials say

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has partially reopened, allowing limited pedestrian crossings after months of closure. This reopening is part of a US-brokered ceasefire agreement, with operations expected to commence on Monday, as stated by the Israeli Ministry of Defence body, COGAT. The crossing will open under stringent security checks, specifically for Palestinians wishing to leave the war-affected enclave and for those who fled the fighting in the initial months of the war to return (Reuters, France24). 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 (Al Jazeera). The reopening provides 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. According to Gaza’s health ministry, approximately 20,000 people are currently waiting to leave for care (France24). Despite the reopening, access remains highly restricted, with Israel continuing to control the Palestinian side of the crossing. Humanitarian aid flows into Gaza remain extremely limited, and there is no indication from COGAT regarding a significant increase in aid supplies (France24). The situation underscores the ongoing challenges faced by Palestinians in Gaza, as the reopening of Rafah does not fully address the humanitarian needs of the population.