Coordinator for Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT)

The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) is a unit within the Israeli Ministry of Defense responsible for implementing government policy in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. COGAT coordinates between the Israeli government, the Palestinian Authority, international organizations, and other entities regarding humanitarian aid, infrastructure projects, and civilian affairs. COGAT's role is newsworthy currently due to the reopening of the Rafah Crossing between Gaza and Egypt, which has been closed since May 2024. COGAT announced the reopening, emphasizing that it will be conducted with Israeli security screening and initially operate at a limited capacity of approximately 150 people per day. This reopening marks a significant development, allowing for the first movement of people between Gaza and Egypt in months, albeit under Israeli oversight. COGAT's involvement highlights its continued role in managing aspects of daily life and border control within the Palestinian territories, making it a key player in the region's political and humanitarian landscape.