Israel Reopens Rafah Border Crossing with Egypt Under Strict Control

The Israeli government has opened the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, located on the border with Gaza. This crossing, which had been closed for nearly two years, was opened on Monday. Israel has opened this border under strict control, allowing movement of people.

However, it has been stated that only a dozen people will be allowed to cross through this border every day. The movement of humanitarian aid and commercial goods remains closed.

This border was closed in May 2024 after Israel took control of the Palestinian territory. This was a key point in the Gaza ceasefire plan put forward by US President Donald Trump.

Nearly 20,000 sick and injured Palestinians are waiting to leave Gaza. But Israeli media reports that only 50 patients (accompanied by two relatives) will be allowed to leave here every day. It is also reported that only 50 people out of tens of thousands who fled during the Gaza war will be allowed to return daily.

The World Health Organization (WHO) will monitor the transfer of patients from the area controlled by Hamas. It is understood that patients will be transported by bus to the crossing through the area controlled by the Israeli army.

Israeli Defense Minister Yoav Gallant warned that anyone crossing the yellow line marking the Israeli-controlled area under the ceasefire agreement will be fired upon. The Rafah crossing will be operated by European Union observers and local Palestinian staff.

Israel has stated it will conduct security checks from a distance. On Sunday, Israeli officials briefly opened the border crossing for testing.