Rafah Border Crossing Reopens, Allowing Sick and Wounded Palestinians into Egypt
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened Monday, allowing sick and wounded Palestinians to cross into Egypt for medical treatment, according to multiple sources. The crossing had been largely closed since May 2024, when Israeli forces captured the Gazan side, reported BBC World.
The reopening occurred amid fragile diplomatic efforts to stabilize the conflict, according to The Guardian. About 150 people were expected to leave Gaza on the first day, with 50 expected to cross later, while approximately 20,000 adults and children in Gaza are in need of medical care, The Guardian reported. Ambulances were seen waiting on the Egyptian side of the border to receive the Palestinians, according to AFP, as cited by BBC World.
The reopening was initially slated to occur during the first phase of a ceasefire plan proposed by US President Donald Trump between Israel and Hamas, which began in October, BBC World reported. However, Israel blocked the reopening until the return of the body of the last Israeli hostage in Gaza, which happened last week, according to BBC World.
The reopening of the Rafah crossing will likely bring relief to many Palestinians, who see it as a crucial passage for medical assistance and other essential needs, BBC World reported.
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