Rafah Border Crossing Reopens: Hope and Challenges for Gazans

Tue Feb 03 2026 17:19:37 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

After extensive closures, the Rafah border crossing is open again, allowing limited passage for sick Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt, but many still face hurdles.

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened for the first time since May 2024. This reopening, part of a ceasefire plan, allows limited movement of sick Palestinians, but only a few were able to cross on the first day. With about 20,000 waiting for treatment, many are hopeful yet frustrated by strict security checks and limited capacity.

Rafah Border Crossing Reopens: Hope and Challenges for Gazans

Only a handful of sick and wounded Palestinians from Gaza were able to cross into Egypt on Monday as the Rafah border reopened after a lengthy closure.

Closed since Israeli forces took control of the Gazan side in May 2024, the crossing was to have been part of a ceasefire plan championed by former US President Donald Trump that began in October. Israel delayed the reopening until the return of the body of the last Israeli hostage, which occurred last week.

While the reopening is seen as a lifeline for many Gazans, frustration grows over the limited number of individuals allowed to cross. On the first day, only five patients and their companions successfully crossed into Egypt, far fewer than the approximately 20,000 individuals waiting for treatment.

Israeli reports indicated that only 50 patients would be allowed to exit each day, with a similar number of returning individuals. Security measures have complicated the process, with many unable to complete their crossings due to checks, prompting Palestinian officials to voice concerns.

The crossing is open for movement, but only a small number of people have been allowed through, one source noted. The crossing will be operated by EU supervisors and local Palestinian staff with Israel conducting remote security checks.

Hope remains for many Gazans. A mother with a sick daughter expressed urgency for her child to receive essential medical treatment, while others yearn for opportunities to study abroad. The head of a Palestinian committee called the opening a significant step toward reconnecting the people of Gaza with the outside world.

As the crossing resumes function, continued efforts are urged for allowing humanitarian aid and increased access for individuals in need.