Rafah Crossing Set to Reopen for Gaza Residents, Israel Confirms

Said Khatib/AFP

Rafah Crossing Point.

Israeli authorities have announced that the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will reopen in the coming days to allow Palestinians to exit the Gaza Strip. The announcement came from COGAT, the Israeli body responsible for civilian affairs in Palestinian territories.

According to the statement, the reopening will be coordinated with Egyptian authorities and monitored by the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM), following a similar arrangement implemented during a ceasefire in January 2025.

The crossing is expected to operate exclusively for Gaza residents seeking to leave the territory. However, specific details regarding eligibility, the number of people permitted to cross, and the exact timing have not yet been released.

COGAT emphasised that the reopening will not immediately facilitate the return of individuals or the passage of humanitarian aid, which will continue to be delivered through other crossings under separate arrangements.

The move is intended to provide a controlled humanitarian outlet for civilians, including the sick, wounded, and those with urgent needs.


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