Israel’s partial reopening of the Rafah crossing follows the recovery of the remains of the last Israeli hostage held in Gaza. The crossing, coordinated by Israel’s defence ministry body COGAT and supervised by the EU, is crucial for civilians and humanitarian aid.
About 200 patients, including those requiring life-saving treatment abroad, such as dialysis, are expected to leave Gaza. The total number of Palestinians permitted to enter or exit has not yet been finalised, and authorities continue preparing for full operations.
The Rafah crossing is the only border point in Gaza not controlled through Israel. Israeli forces maintain control over more than half of the territory, while Hamas governs the remainder. The reopening is also expected to allow the 15-member National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG) to enter and oversee daily governance under the ceasefire agreement.
