Israel and Egypt Prepare to Reopen Rafah Crossing for Gaza

Israel’s military aid agency, COGAT, announced on Thursday that preparations are underway with Egypt to reopen the Rafah border crossing with Gaza for the movement of people. The exact date of reopening has not yet been confirmed.

COGAT oversees the entry of humanitarian aid and other goods into Gaza. The agency stressed that, despite preparations, humanitarian aid will continue to flow primarily through the Kerem Shalom crossing with Israel and other established entry points. “Humanitarian aid will not pass through the Rafah crossing. This was never agreed upon at any stage,” the statement said.

The potential reopening of Rafah comes after Israel warned that it could keep the crossing closed and limit aid into Gaza. Israel cited concerns over the slow return of the bodies of dead hostages by Hamas, highlighting ongoing tensions despite the ceasefire that ended two years of conflict. The ceasefire had allowed for the release of all living hostages held by Hamas.

Two sources reported on Wednesday that the Rafah crossing was expected to allow people to move in and out of Gaza starting Thursday, though no official confirmation has yet been given.

COGAT’s announcement underscores the delicate balance between humanitarian relief and security concerns in the region. While aid continues to reach Gaza through other crossings, the movement of people via Rafah remains a sensitive issue, influenced by ongoing coordination between Israel and Egypt.

The Rafah crossing, which borders Egypt, is one of the main points for Gazans to leave the territory, making its reopening a significant development for families and civilians affected by the conflict.

The situation remains fluid, with authorities continuing to monitor both humanitarian needs and security developments closely.