Israel Reopens Rafah Crossing in Pilot Phase

Israeli daily Yedioth Ahronoth reported that the Rafah crossing has resumed operations as part of a pilot arrangement. While the terminal is now technically open, the actual movement of people is scheduled to begin on Monday, with strict numerical limits imposed.

Under the arrangement, Palestinians who previously left Gaza during the war will only be permitted to return through the Rafah terminal. Israel will oversee operations remotely using surveillance systems rather than deploying troops at the crossing itself.

Egypt, according to the report, will provide Israel with daily lists of individuals expected to cross the border in both directions within a 24-hour period.

Medical Evacuations and Egyptian Preparations

Egyptian state-run Al-Qahera News reported that Cairo will begin transferring Palestinian patients from Gaza to hospitals across Egypt starting Monday. Ambulances have been deployed in large numbers on the Egyptian side of the crossing, while hospitals nationwide have been placed on heightened alert.

The Egyptian Health Ministry has dispatched medical supplies and equipment to support examinations and treatment for incoming patients. Authorities said the Egyptian side of the Rafah crossing remains fully operational around the clock to facilitate transfers.

Patient evacuations will be carried out under a pre-agreed mechanism, and the Palestinian side of the crossing is expected to be formally operational as of Monday.

Security Conditions and Movement Rules

Israeli media said Israel will allow a limited number of wounded Palestinian gunmen to leave Gaza through Rafah if they choose, adding that those who exit the enclave will, in principle, be allowed to return at a later stage.

Despite the reopening, no official statements have been issued by Israeli, Egyptian or Palestinian authorities confirming the operational details.

Context: War, Ceasefire and Continued Violence

The Rafah crossing is a critical artery for humanitarian aid and civilian movement. Israel seized control of the terminal in May 2024, nearly nine months into its war on Gaza, which has killed more than 71,000 Palestinians and injured over 171,000 since October 2023, according to Gaza health authorities.

Although the crossing was slated to reopen in October under the first phase of a ceasefire agreement, Israel delayed the move until the release of its last captive held in Gaza, which occurred this week.

Despite the ceasefire framework, Israeli attacks have continued, with Gaza’s media office reporting at least 524 people killed and 1,360 wounded since October 10.