Preparations begin for reopening of Gaza’s Rafah crossing, officials say

Preparations began Sunday to reopen the Rafah crossing, Gaza's main border with Egypt, which has been largely shut since May 2024. Cogat, the Israeli military unit overseeing humanitarian coordination, stated the crossing will reopen for pedestrian traffic in both directions, coordinated with Egypt and the EU. While the exact timing of passenger passage remains uncertain, a Palestinian official anticipates the crossing will open for passengers on Monday. Israel stated the crossing would open under strict security checks for Palestinians leaving the war-ravaged territory and those returning who fled earlier in the conflict, prioritizing the sick and wounded seeking medical care abroad. The crossing is expected to accommodate 150-200 people in both directions, with more people leaving than returning, and lists of approved individuals have been submitted by Egypt and approved by Israel.

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