Gaza–Egypt Rafah crossing reopens on limited basis as ceasefire takes hold

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened for limited movement, according to Egyptian and Israeli security officials, marking an early practical step following the implementation of a ceasefire in the Israel–Hamas conflict.

An Egyptian official involved in ceasefire coordination said around 50 Palestinians were expected to cross in each direction on the first day of operations. The official spoke on condition of anonymity because the discussions surrounding the ceasefire arrangements remain confidential.

Egypt’s state-run media also reported that the crossing had resumed operations, though authorities emphasized that movement would remain restricted and subject to security coordination. Rafah is Gaza’s only border crossing not directly controlled by Israel and has played a critical role in humanitarian access and civilian movement throughout the war.

The reopening is seen as significant for Gaza residents who have been largely cut off from travel and medical evacuations for months. International aid agencies have repeatedly warned that prolonged closure of Rafah worsened humanitarian conditions inside the territory.

Officials indicated that any expansion of traffic through the crossing would depend on continued compliance with the ceasefire terms and ongoing security assessments by both Egyptian and Israeli authorities.