Return through Rafah: Palestinian women recount Israeli interrogation

Al JazeeraCenterEN 5 min read 100% complete by Maram HumaidFebruary 4, 2026 at 10:51 PM

AI Summary

long article 5 min

Palestinian women returning to Gaza through the Rafah crossing with Egypt in February 2026 are recounting experiences of detention and interrogation by Israeli forces. The women, including Rotana al-Raqab and her mother, Huda Abu Abed, had been stranded in Egypt since March 2025, seeking medical treatment. Despite the Rafah crossing not crossing Israeli territory, it has been largely closed since May 2024, and its partial reopening is linked to the second phase of a Gaza ceasefire deal. Upon their return, the women describe enduring body searches, interrogations, and confiscation of belongings. They had been separated from their families in Gaza, including Rotana's six children, and were eager to return amidst ongoing Israeli attacks.

Key Entities & Roles

Key Player Opposition Context

United States 40% Palestinian embassy in Cairo 40% Nasser Hospital 40% Khan Younis ×260% Egypt ×370% Huda Abu Abed ×270% Israeli forces ×270% Israel ×380% Rotana al-Raqab ×490% Rafah crossing ×590% Gaza Strip ×4100%

Keywords

palestinian women 90% rafah crossing 80% israeli interrogation 80% gaza 70% detention 60% egypt 50% confiscation of belongings 50% ceasefire deal 40% medical treatment 40%