Israel announced the reopening of the Rafah border crossing for travel between Gaza and Egypt starting Sunday, marking the first time the crucial passage has been accessible since May 2024. COGAT, the Israeli agency responsible for civilian affairs in Gaza, did not specify the daily limit for crossings by Gaza’s approximately two million inhabitants.
According to COGAT, residents who departed Gaza during the conflict will be allowed to return from Egypt after obtaining security clearance from Israel in coordination with Egyptian authorities. The reopening of the crossing was a key condition of the initial phase of President Donald Trump’s plan to end hostilities between Israel and Hamas militants following a ceasefire in October.
Israel took control of the border crossing in May 2024, during the Gaza conflict. The reopening was contingent upon the retrieval of the final Israeli captive in Gaza, which was accomplished recently. Reports indicate that Israel aims to regulate the flow of Palestinians entering Gaza from Egypt to ensure a higher number can leave than enter, a proposal Egypt has not yet accepted.
Despite ongoing discussions between Egypt and Israel on this issue, a source familiar with the matter disclosed that Israel plans to permit around 150 individuals to cross daily. Notably, the reopening will facilitate the movement of people only, as Gaza continues to face challenges in receiving essential humanitarian aid due to Israeli constraints.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) emphasized the urgent need for easing restrictions on crucial items such as water pipes and generators in Gaza to support the restoration of vital infrastructure. The region, devastated by Israel’s prolonged offensive, still grapples with widespread destruction and a displaced populace.
Israel initiated military actions in Gaza after a Hamas-led incursion in October 2023 resulted in significant casualties. The offensive has led to the loss of over 71,400 Palestinian lives, with more than 490 fatalities attributed to Israeli actions since October 2025, as reported by Gaza’s Health Ministry.
