Rafah Border Crossing Reopens on “Trial Basis” Amid Ceasefire Progress
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The Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt reopened today “on a trial basis,” marking a critical step in the implementation of the second phase of the US-brokered ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.
After being nearly completely closed for over two years, the reopening offers a glimmer of hope for the approximately 20,000 Palestinians awaiting medical care outside Gaza, including many children. The move comes as preparations are underway for a more extensive operation as part of the ceasefire agreement.
A Key Lifeline for Gaza
The Rafah crossing represents the sole remaining access point for Palestinians to exit and enter the Gaza Strip under the long-standing Israeli blockade, which has been in effect since Hamas assumed control in 2007. Its closure has severely restricted the movement of people and goods, exacerbating the humanitarian crisis within the enclave.
In May 2024, the Israeli army seized control of the Rafah crossing, alleging its use in Hamas’ smuggling operations. The reopening was a stipulated condition within the fragile ceasefire deal brokered by the United States. Progress toward the second phase of the agreement was enabled by the recovery of the remains of the last Israeli hostage held in Gaza earlier this week.
Limited Initial Capacity, Potential for Expansion
Initially, the crossing will operate on a limited basis. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced that 50 patients will be permitted to leave Gaza each day, while 50 individuals will be allowed to enter. Both Israel and Egypt will be responsible for vetting those seeking passage, with border patrol agents from the European Union overseeing the process.
According to a statement from COGAT, the Israeli military unit responsible for civilian administration in the West Bank and the Gaza Strip, Palestinian residents will be allowed to pass through the crossing as soon as final preparations are complete. The head of the new Palestinian committee governing Gaza’s daily affairs indicated the crossing will facilitate two-way travel starting Monday.
An Egyptian official, speaking to the AP news agency, confirmed that an EU mission will oversee exit and entry procedures, accompanied by Palestinian security officers. Notably, ambulances have already begun transporting patients to the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing.
Hope for Humanitarian Relief and Return
The reopening of the Rafah crossing is expected to facilitate not only the passage of those seeking medical attention but also the return of Palestinians hoping to return home. Thousands remain stranded, awaiting the opportunity to travel.
COGAT also coordinates the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza, and the renewed access through Rafah is anticipated to streamline these efforts. Should the initial “trial basis” operation prove successful, officials anticipate a gradual increase in the number of people permitted to cross.
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The reopening arrives after Israel conducted its heaviest airstrikes in Gaza in recent weeks, underscoring the precariousness of the situation and the importance of sustained diplomatic efforts to maintain the ceasefire and expand access through the Rafah crossing.
