Preparations to reopen Gaza’s main border crossing into Rafah began on Sunday, though officials indicated it was uncertain if any Palestinians would pass through before the day’s end.
Prior to the current conflict, the Rafah border crossing with Egypt served as the primary exit point for most Palestinians in Gaza to reach the outside world and a crucial route for aid deliveries. It has been largely closed since May 2024.
Cogat, the Israeli military unit responsible for humanitarian coordination, stated that the crossing will reopen in both directions for pedestrians only, with operations coordinated alongside Egypt and the European Union.
According to Cogat, “all involved parties are carrying out a series of preliminary preparations aimed at increasing readiness for full operation of the crossing.” The actual passage of people is expected to begin once these preparations are complete.
A source connected to the EU mission confirmed these details, and a Palestinian official anticipates the crossing will be open to passengers on Monday. The Egyptian foreign ministry has not yet responded to requests for comment.
Israel has stipulated that the crossing will operate under strict security protocols, allowing only Palestinians who wish to leave the territory or those who fled fighting earlier in the conflict to return.
A significant number of those expected to depart are individuals requiring medical care abroad, with the Palestinian health ministry reporting approximately 20,000 patients awaiting permission to leave Gaza.
An Israeli defence official indicated the crossing has a capacity of 150-200 people in both directions. The official added that more people are expected to leave Gaza than return, as patients will be accompanied by escorts. Lists of individuals authorized to pass through the crossing have been submitted by Egypt and approved by Israel.
The reopening aligns with the initial phase of a plan proposed by US president Donald Trump to resolve the conflict. However, the ceasefire, which began in October after two years of fighting, has faced repeated disruptions due to ongoing violence.
Since the ceasefire began, Israeli attacks in Gaza have resulted in the deaths of over 500 Palestinians, according to local health officials. Palestinian militants have killed four Israeli troops, according to Israeli authorities.
On Saturday, Israel conducted some of its most intense airstrikes since the ceasefire, resulting in at least 30 fatalities, in response to what it described as a Hamas violation of the truce on Friday involving militants emerging from a tunnel in Rafah.
Further phases of the Trump plan involve a handover of governance to Palestinian technocrats, the disarmament of Hamas, and the withdrawal of Israeli troops, alongside the establishment of an international peacekeeping force and reconstruction efforts.
Hamas has thus far rejected disarmament, and Israel has maintained that it will use force if necessary to achieve this outcome.
Frequently Asked Questions
What was the status of the Rafah crossing before the recent preparations?
The Rafah border crossing had been largely shut since May 2024, significantly restricting movement for Palestinians in Gaza.
Who is coordinating the reopening of the crossing?
The reopening is being coordinated between Cogat (the Israeli military unit overseeing humanitarian coordination), Egypt, and the European Union.
Who will be allowed to use the crossing initially?
Initially, the crossing will be open to Palestinians who wish to leave the territory and those who fled fighting earlier in the conflict and wish to return, subject to stringent security checks.
As the situation evolves, what impact will the reopening of the Rafah crossing have on the lives of Palestinians in Gaza?
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