Palestinian women recount ‘journey of horror’ at Gaza’s Rafah crossing

Al JazeeraEN 2 min read 100% complete by Al JazeeraFebruary 4, 2026 at 03:28 AM

AI Summary

medium article 2 min

Palestinian women returning to Gaza through the reopened Rafah crossing from Egypt on Monday recounted harsh treatment by Israeli forces. The women, part of a small group allowed entry, described being separated from their children, handcuffed, and blindfolded. They were subjected to lengthy interrogations, lasting up to three hours, where they faced pressure and were threatened with detention if they didn't answer questions. The Israeli military confiscated their belongings, including food and drinks, and controlled the entry process. The women expressed feelings of humiliation and oppression during the experience before being reunited with their families at Nasser Hospital with the help of the UN.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

Reuters 30% Nasser Hospital 30% Huda Abu Abed 40% Khan Younis 40% Ibrahim Al Khalili ×240% Al Jazeera ×250% UN ×250% Egypt ×250% Israel ×270% Israeli military ×280% Gaza Strip ×690% Rafah border crossing ×690%

Keywords

rafah border crossing 100% palestinian women 90% israeli military 80% gaza 80% interrogation 70% humanitarian aid 60% security procedures 50% war-torn territory 40%