Rafah Crossing Reopening Between Egypt and Gaza

On Sunday, Israel and Egypt initiated a trial reopening of the Rafah crossing, which connects Egypt and Gaza. This crossing is set to officially welcome the public starting Monday morning, albeit with some limitations, as only around 150 individuals will be allowed to cross each day.

Those who wish to use the crossing will be transported by buses that operate in organized groups, monitored by Israeli intelligence. Security at the border will be a joint effort between Israeli forces and Egypt, overseen by a European Union mission.

Importantly, only Gaza residents who exited the area during the conflict will be permitted to return, and this is contingent upon obtaining prior security clearance from Israel.

COGAT, Israel’s Coordinator for Regional Government Activities, stated, “The Rafah level crossing has been reopened for the purpose of people movement only. A trial operation was conducted today to test and evaluate the operation of the level crossing.”

The movement of residents in both directions is expected to begin officially tomorrow.

Israel’s Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu confirmed last week that the country had agreed to a “limited reopening” of its borders, which aligns with President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan. According to the prime minister’s office, this reopening is strictly for pedestrian traffic and requires a comprehensive Israeli inspection process.

The office also highlighted that this step is dependent on Hamas’s complete cooperation in returning all living hostages and the remains of any deceased hostages.

Last week, Israel located and returned the body of Staff Sgt. Ran Gviri, the last Israeli hostage taken during the conflict.