The Rafah border crossing, Gaza’s main link to the outside world, reopened on Monday (2 February) after nearly two years, marking a key milestone of a US-brokered ceasefire aimed at ending the war.
According to Al Qahera, Egypt’s state news agency, and an Israeli security official, Palestinians began limited entry and exit via the Gaza–Egypt border. Israeli forces had seized the crossing in May 2024, halting aid flows and medical evacuations.
The reopening follows Israel’s decision last week, after the remains of the final hostage held in Gaza, Rani Gvili, were recovered and returned.
Key developments
• Initial “soft opening” allows 50 people in and 50 out daily, per a former Egyptian official.
• Israel and Egypt will jointly vet travellers under strict security protocols.
• EU border officials and the Palestinian Authority will supervise operations.
• Medical evacuees are prioritised; over 20,000 patients await treatment abroad, according to Zaher al-Waheidi, Gaza Health Ministry.
While capacity remains limited, the move offers cautious hope amid Gaza’s humanitarian crisis.
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