Israeli media reported that Israel is preparing to reopen the Rafah crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt in both directions following Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's visit to the United States. Kan 11 news reported on Wednesday that the expected decision is a result of pressure from U.S. President Donald Trump.
The Rafah crossing has been a critical point of access to the outside world for Palestinians in Gaza. Its closure in May 2024, when Israeli forces occupied the Palestinian side, resulted in the destruction of its buildings and a halt to travel, exacerbating the existing humanitarian crisis, particularly for those requiring medical treatment abroad. This marked the first time in 20 years that Israeli forces had directly controlled the crossing.
The reopening of the Rafah crossing could alleviate some of the pressure on the humanitarian situation within Gaza, allowing for the entry of essential supplies and the exit of individuals needing medical care. However, the details regarding the terms of the reopening, including security arrangements and the extent of Israeli control, remain unclear.
The U.S. State Department has not yet released an official statement regarding its role in mediating the reopening of the crossing. Representatives from the Palestinian Authority have also not commented on the reports. The future operation of the Rafah crossing will likely depend on ongoing negotiations between Israel, Egypt, the United States, and Palestinian representatives.
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