Recent reports from Gazans returning through the newly reopened Rafah crossing with Egypt highlight alarming experiences involving stringent security checks conducted by local militias. As the border reopened, women traveling with families recounted being escorted from the border to a militia-controlled checkpoint in Gaza where they were searched.
Lamia Rabia, a mother traveling with her children, described the search process where members of the Abu Shabab militia conducted thorough checks, stating, There was a woman from the Abu Shabab group who conducted the searches on the women. Reports suggest that during these searches, the militia did not engage with the travelers, merely conducting physical searches before the individuals faced questioning by Israeli forces.
The coordination between the militia and Israeli forces was brought to light when Rabia mentioned both groups were present at the same checkpoint. Although the Israeli Defense Forces have refrained from commenting on these claims, the implications of such collaborations raise significant concerns regarding the safety and security of ordinary citizens.
Amidst these reports, the European Union, which has monitors at the crossing, is considering measures to ensure the safety of new arrivals and prevent potential abusive treatment during the checking process.
Despite the promise of a streamlined reopening of the Rafah crossing, issues such as delays, security restrictions, and accusations of maltreatment have surfaced. The situation remains precarious as the flow of evacuees continues to be constrained, with only a small fraction of expected travelers being allowed through.
