Preparations Underway for Reopening of Gaza's Rafah Crossing

Preparations are underway to reopen the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, marking a significant step in the ongoing ceasefire process. The crossing, closed since May 2024, is set to resume limited pedestrian movement.

The Israeli military unit overseeing humanitarian coordination, COGAT, stated that the crossing will reopen in both directions for Gaza residents on foot only, with operations coordinated alongside Egypt and the European Union.

A source close to the EU mission confirmed these details, and a Palestinian official indicated that the crossing is expected to open for passengers on Monday.

Israel has specified that the crossing will open under stringent security checks, permitting passage for Palestinians wishing to leave the territory and for those who fled during the initial months of the conflict to return.

Many of those expected to leave are individuals in need of medical care abroad. The Palestinian health ministry reports that approximately 20,000 patients are awaiting departure from Gaza.

An Israeli defense official noted that the crossing can accommodate between 150 to 200 people in both directions. Lists of individuals approved for passage have been submitted by Egypt and approved by Israel.

Reopening the Rafah crossing was a key requirement in the first phase of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire plan. However, the ceasefire, effective since October, has faced challenges, with recent Israeli airstrikes reportedly resulting in over 30 Palestinian fatalities.

The subsequent phases of the ceasefire plan involve governance transitions, disarmament of Hamas, withdrawal of Israeli troops, and reconstruction efforts in Gaza. Hamas has thus far rejected disarmament, and Israel has indicated potential use of force if peaceful disarmament is not achieved.