Gaza’s Rafah border crossing with Egypt partially reopened on Sunday, February 1, 2026, after being closed since May 2024. The crossing, a vital lifeline for Palestinians, will allow limited pedestrian travel starting Monday, February 2, under strict security measures coordinated by Israel, Egypt, and the European Union.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
The reopening follows months of pressure from humanitarian organizations and comes as part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas. Israel’s Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) announced that the crossing will initially allow approximately 150 people per day to pass, with priority given to medical patients and their companions. The move follows the recovery of the remains of Ran Gvili, the last Israeli hostage held in Gaza, which cleared the way for the reopening.
Deeper Dive & Context
Humanitarian Impact
About 20,000 Palestinians, including 4,000 children, require urgent medical care outside Gaza. However, only a fraction will be allowed to leave under the current restrictions. Israeli authorities have stated that 50 patients per day will be permitted to exit, each accompanied by two relatives. The reopening is seen as largely symbolic by aid agencies, given the vast unmet needs.
Security and Supervision
The crossing will be supervised by the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) and Palestinian security personnel. Israel will conduct prior security clearance for all individuals, and only those who left Gaza during the war will be allowed to return. The reopening is part of President Donald Trump’s 20-point peace plan for Gaza, which includes the reopening of the Rafah crossing.
Political and Diplomatic Reactions
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office confirmed the limited reopening, emphasizing that it is contingent on security conditions. Meanwhile, Palestinian officials have expressed cautious optimism, though concerns remain about the limited scope of the reopening. Some Israeli politicians have criticized the move, while others see it as a necessary step toward stability.
Historical Context
The Rafah crossing has been a contentious point in the Israel-Gaza conflict. Before the war, it was the main passage for people moving in and out of Gaza. Israel seized control of the crossing in May 2024, leading to its near-complete closure. Egypt has repeatedly stressed that the crossing must be open for both entry and exit to prevent forced displacement of Palestinians.
Future Implications
The reopening is seen as a test of the ceasefire’s durability. Recent Israeli airstrikes in Gaza, in response to alleged ceasefire violations by Hamas, have raised concerns about the sustainability of the truce. The crossing’s reopening could also pave the way for further negotiations, including discussions on disarming Hamas and establishing a Palestinian technocratic administration in Gaza.