Rafah Border Crossing Reopens as Humanitarian Efforts Resume

Mon Feb 02 2026 18:19:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened, allowing limited movement for Palestinians. This crucial step aims to facilitate humanitarian aid amidst the ongoing conflict.

After a prolonged closure since May 2024, the Rafah border crossing has reopened for limited movement of people. While only a handful of individuals will be permitted to cross each day, it marks a significant development under the framework of a ceasefire plan initiated by the US government. Thousands of Palestinians require urgent medical treatment, and the crossing's operation will be monitored to ensure compliance with security measures.

Palestinians have begun re-entering the Rafah border crossing connecting the Gaza Strip and Egypt, which has reopened for the movement of individuals after being largely closed since May 2024, when the Palestinian side was captured by Israeli forces.

This long-awaited reopening is a component of the first stage of US President Donald Trump's ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas, initiated in October. The crossing will allow a limited number of crossings daily, with priority given to medical patients needing urgent treatment. However, humanitarian aid and commercial goods will still not be permitted through.

According to reports, approximately 20,000 Palestinians suffering from serious health issues are currently waiting to leave Gaza for medical care. Only 50 patients, accompanied by two relatives each, will be allowed to exit daily, while a similar number of those who previously fled will have the opportunity to return.

The World Health Organization (WHO) is set to facilitate the transport of patients, guiding them from Hamas-controlled areas through Israeli military territory to the Rafah crossing.

Israeli Defence Minister Israel Katz issued a stern warning stating that anyone breaching the designated boundaries would face military consequences. The crossing's management will be overseen by European Union supervisors in collaboration with local Palestinian staff, with Israeli authorities conducting remote security checks.

A trial opening of the crossing occurred recently, with around 30 Palestinian staff members reported to be present at the Egyptian side ahead of full operations resuming.

Before the seizure by Israeli forces, the Rafah crossing was the main exit point for Palestinians during conflicts and a critical entry point for humanitarian aid. The crossing's reopening had been delayed until a previous condition was met: the retrieval of the remains of the last Israeli hostage held by Hamas.

The situation remains delicate as negotiations continue regarding the terms of aid and movement across this vital border point.