Israel Plans to Reopen Rafah Crossing Amid Dispute with Egypt

Israel has announced plans to reopen the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt in the coming days, allowing Palestinians to exit the enclave. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) stated that departures would require Israeli security approval and coordination with Egypt, under European Union supervision, similar to the mechanism used during a January 2025 ceasefire.

However, Egypt has denied coordinating with Israel on this matter. An official from Egypt's State Information Service emphasized that any agreement to open the crossing should allow movement in both directions, in accordance with U.S. President Donald Trump's peace plan.

The Rafah crossing has been largely closed since May 2024, following Israel's seizure of the Gaza side. Prior to the conflict, it served as a vital passage for Palestinians seeking medical treatment and travel opportunities. The World Health Organization reports that over 16,500 individuals in Gaza require urgent medical care abroad.

The reopening of the crossing is part of a broader ceasefire agreement aimed at ending the two-year conflict between Israel and Hamas. Despite the truce, challenges remain, including the return of all hostages and the future governance of Gaza.