Rafah Crossing Breakthrough: Israel Approves Reopening Plan Under EU Supervision and Remote Security Screening

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has confirmed a strategic agreement to reopen the Rafah Crossing, marking a significant shift in Gaza’s border dynamics. Under the new cabinet-approved plan, a European Union mission, working alongside Palestinian Authority teams, will manage day-to-day operations. Direct Israeli physical inspections will be replaced by remote monitoring and pre-approvals from Israel’s security agency, Shin Bet.

The protocol establishes a two-stage process for entries, ensuring strict Israeli security checks in designated zones to prevent smuggling, while allowing hundreds of Palestinians to depart daily. In a notable policy shift, "low-level" Hamas members and their families—unlinked to violent crimes—will be permitted to exit. The plan, coordinated with Ali Shaath’s transitional committee, reportedly aims to facilitate a higher volume of departures than returns as part of the new post-war administrative phase.