Israel partially reopens Gaza’s Rafah crossing
After two years of closure, Israel has partially reopened the key Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt as part of a “pilot operation”, Israeli media outlet Yedioth Ahronoth reported. The crossing is expected to reopen to traffic from Monday (February 2). It is estimated that around 150 residents will be able to leave Gaza each day, while around 50 will be able to enter. It has been largely closed since Israeli forces seized the Rafah crossing in May 2024, severely disrupting the lives of Gaza’s civilians and the delivery of humanitarian aid.
The Israeli Defense Ministry’s Palestinian Civil Affairs Coordination Agency, Kogat, confirmed that the crossing is currently open only to certain residents. Health officials in Gaza said that around 200 patients are currently waiting for the border to open, hoping to be allowed to leave Gaza for urgent medical treatment. In addition, a team of at least 40 officials affiliated with the Palestinian Authority arrived at the Egyptian side of the border to begin their operations in Gaza.
According to Israeli authorities, the crossing is being opened under the supervision of the European Union mission and in coordination with Egypt. Israel had previously stipulated that it would not open the border until the body of Ran Gavili, the last Israeli soldier held hostage in Gaza, was returned. COGAT made the decision after his body was recently recovered and buried. The organization described the move as an “initial pilot phase” and said preparations were underway to begin full operations soon.
Meanwhile, the United Nations has demanded that the crossing be opened to the transport of private commercial goods, as well as humanitarian aid, which is crucial for the recovery of Gaza’s devastated economy. UN spokesman Stephane Dujarric said in a statement that humanitarian workers are currently facing various obstacles at the border and delays in unloading goods. The decision to open the border is being seen as a significant diplomatic breakthrough amid reports of regular violence despite a ceasefire in Gaza, although a final agreement on full movement is still pending.
Source: TRT World.
