Challenges Faced by Gazans at the Rafah Crossing

Sun Feb 08 2026 01:27:58 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

As Gazans navigate the newly reopened Rafah crossing, many recount experiences of stringent security checks by a local militia, raising concerns over safety and control.

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened, but the return process is fraught with challenges. Gazans, especially women and children, have reported intrusive searches by a local militia group linked to Israel, alongside the Israeli forces. These developments signal a complex web of security arrangements, amid growing tensions regarding the treatment of those trying to cross. With only twelve out of fifty expected evacuees successfully entering Gaza as of Monday, the situation remains precarious for those in need of medical assistance and normalcy.

Two Gazan women who recently crossed through the reopened Rafah crossing with Egypt reported stringent checks conducted by a Palestinian militia linked to Israel.

Lamia Rabia, traveling with her children, described being escorted from the border to a checkpoint where members of the Abu Shabab militia searched her and other travelers. 'There was a woman from the Abu Shabab group who conducted the searches on the women,' Rabia recounted. The women stated that they were not engaged in conversation during the searches, which were followed by questioning from Israeli forces.

The presence of the Abu Shabab militia has raised concerns about the coordination between local groups and Israeli security, with inquiries about their collaboration remaining unanswered by the Israel Defense Forces.

The Abu Shabab militia operates in the Rafah area, receiving support from Israel, specifically for maintaining security. Reports indicate this group aims to play a pivotal role in border security amid the growing tension surrounding Gaza.

Both Rabia and another unidentified woman claimed that the militia had mistreated them, alleging verbal abuse and physical mistreatment during the process. Some logs suggest that European officials at the crossing are also confiscating personal belongings, raising further alarm among returnees.

Fifty patients were expected to return to Gaza for medical treatment, but only twelve were allowed entry, leaving many stranded with their relatives sent back to Egypt without explanation.

As the Rafah crossing gradually opens, the confusion surrounding the process showcases the broader struggle of governance within Gaza amidst rising tensions with Hamas and the need for humanitarian access.