‘Rafah’ border to reopen on February 1

After nearly two years of closure, the Gaza–Egypt border (Rafah crossing) is set to reopen. Israel announced on Friday that the main crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt will resume bilateral movement of people starting Sunday . The decision comes as part of the ceasefire agreement proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump , enabling Gazans to travel abroad and return.

The Israeli military confirmed that movement through the border will begin on Sunday, though initially only a limited number of travellers will be allowed. Priority will be given to 50 patients requiring urgent medical treatment outside Gaza , as well as 50 local residents returning to their homes after leaving Gaza during the conflict. Thousands of patients in Gaza are currently awaiting foreign medical treatment.

Even with the reopening, Israel and Egypt will maintain stringent security measures . Every traveller will undergo thorough screening by the security forces of both countries , with the entire process monitored by European Union (EU) border patrol teams. To prevent illegal arms transfers into Gaza, the Israeli military will retain control over the corridor along the border and continue close surveillance.

Experts view the reopening of the Rafah border as marking the second phase of the peace agreement brokered by Trump last year. Following Israel’s recovery of the last remains of its captive from Gaza on Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu gave the green signal to reopen the crossing. The committee newly appointed to oversee Gaza’s administration, led by Ali Shath, also expressed support for the reopening.

The health system in Gaza was severely damaged during the conflict, and more than 18,000 injured people are waiting for surgeries abroad . Reopening the Rafah crossing will facilitate humanitarian aid and provide momentum for Gaza’s reconstruction. Netanyahu emphasised that full-scale development work in Gaza will commence only if Hamas abandons weapons and cooperates for peace.