Israel will reopen Gaza’s border crossing with Egypt on Sunday, after nearly 2 years of closure

Associated Press (AP)CenterEN 2 min read 100% complete by By SAM METZJanuary 30, 2026 at 01:23 PM

AI Summary

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Israel will reopen the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt on Sunday, after nearly two years of closure. The reopening, allowing limited pedestrian movement, is considered a step forward for a U.S. ceasefire plan. Both Israel and Egypt will vet individuals, with supervision by EU border patrol agents and additional screenings by Israel in the adjacent corridor. The crossing has been largely closed since May 2024, when Israel cited the need to halt arms smuggling by Hamas. The decision to reopen follows the recovery of the last hostage remains in Gaza and pressure to allow medical evacuees and displaced Palestinians to cross. Initially, dozens of Palestinians will be allowed through each way, prioritizing medical cases and those who fled during the war.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Ali Shaath 40% Hamas 40% European Union 45% Donald Trump 50% Benjamin Netanyahu ×260% Egypt ×370% COGAT ×275% Rafah crossing ×385% Israel ×790% Gaza Strip ×695%

Keywords

gaza border crossing 100% rafah crossing 90% israel 80% gaza strip 80% egypt 70% reopening 60% border control 50% medical evacuees 50% ceasefire plan 40%