Israel Reopens Gaza's Rafah Border Crossing with Egypt for People

Rafah Crossing Reopens for Movement of People

• 🌍 Palestinians have begun entering the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, which had been largely closed for two years.
• 🔑 The reopening is seen by many Palestinians as a lifeline to the world, offering a route out of Gaza away from Israel.
• ⚠️ Despite the reopening, there is frustration as only small numbers of people and no goods will be allowed through.

Medical and Returnee Numbers

• 🏥 Approximately 20,000 sick and wounded Palestinians are awaiting passage from Gaza for urgent medical treatment, according to local hospitals and the WHO.
• ✈️ Israeli reports indicate that only 50 patients, accompanied by one or two relatives, will be permitted to exit daily.
• 🔙 Additionally, 50 individuals who left Gaza during the war will be allowed to return each day.
• ⏳ Based on these figures, it could take until late next year for all those wishing to return to Gaza to do so, causing significant frustration.

Operational and Security Aspects

• 🇪🇺 The crossing is to be supervised by European Union monitors (EU BAM) working alongside local Palestinian staff.
• 🛂 The Palestinian Authority will issue stamps for entry and exit, despite Israel's stance against its role in Gaza's future governance.
• 🔒 Israeli security checks will be conducted remotely, including the use of facial recognition software for those entering Gaza.
• 📝 All individuals will require advance clearance from both Egyptian and Israeli authorities to pass through the crossing.
• 🚚 Humanitarian aid will continue to bypass Rafah, needing to cross through Israeli security checks at the KM Shalom border crossing.