A Narrow Lifeline: Rafah Crossing Reopens Partially for Travelers and Medical Evacuations After Year-Long Closure

For the first time in nearly a year, the Rafah Border Crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened on Monday, February 2, 2026. The initial phase of operation remains highly restricted, allowing only 50 individuals per direction daily, primarily prioritizing critical medical cases and students. The process is being monitored by the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) alongside Palestinian Authority staff.

While residents like amputee "Mohammed Nasser" view the reopening as a "lung to breathe," Israel maintains strict security protocols, limiting operations to six hours a day (9 AM to 3 PM). The move follows intense U.S. pressure and the recent recovery of the final Israeli hostage's remains. However, as Cairo and Amman reiterate their rejection of any "forced displacement," humanitarian agencies warn that the limited flow of people must be followed by an unrestricted entry of aid and fuel to address the catastrophic conditions inside the strip.