Palestinians have started to re-enter the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt after it reopened for the movement of people. The crossing has largely been closed since May 2024, when the Palestinian side was captured by Israeli forces.
The long-delayed reopening is a key part of the first stage of former U.S. President Donald Trump's ceasefire plan between Israel and Hamas, which began in October.
Only dozens of people will be able to cross in both directions each day. Humanitarian aid and commercial goods will still not be allowed through. Around 20,000 sick and wounded Palestinians are waiting to leave Gaza for treatment.
Israeli reports state that only 50 patients, accompanied by two relatives, will be allowed to exit each day, while 50 of the many who fled Gaza during the conflict will be permitted to return.
The World Health Organization (WHO) will oversee the transfer of patients from Gaza, transporting them through Israeli-controlled territory to the crossing, as per arrangements understood by BBC News.
Israel has warned that violations of the ceasefire terms, particularly crossing designated lines, will result in immediate military action.
The crossing will be managed by supervisors from the European Union and local Palestinian staff, with Israel conducting remote security checks.
A trial run was successfully conducted, with reports indicating Palestinian staff members had arrived on the Egyptian side ahead of the opening.
The crossing, prior to its closure, was a crucial exit for Palestinians and a main entry point for humanitarian supplies.
The delay in reopening was partly tied to the Israeli government’s conditions related to the location of a missing Israeli hostage.
