What's happened
The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened in a test phase, marking a key step in the Israel-Hamas ceasefire. Limited travel is allowed for medical and humanitarian cases, with plans to expand operations as preparations continue under international supervision. The move signals progress in easing Gaza's isolation.
What's behind the headline?
The reopening of Rafah is a significant diplomatic and humanitarian milestone, but its success hinges on strict controls and international oversight. Limited initial crossings reflect ongoing security concerns and political sensitivities. This move will likely improve access for medical evacuations and aid, but full operational capacity remains uncertain. The broader implications include potential stabilization in Gaza, yet persistent restrictions and the complex political landscape suggest that lasting peace and reconstruction will require sustained international engagement. The phased approach indicates Israel and Egypt's cautious optimism, balancing security with humanitarian needs, and foreshadows a gradual easing of Gaza's isolation if the process proves effective.
What the papers say
The Independent reports that the reopening is part of the second phase of the ceasefire, with initial restrictions and international supervision. AP News emphasizes the significance of the test reopening, highlighting the limited movement and ongoing security vetting. Both sources note the broader context of the ceasefire, which aims to exchange hostages, increase aid, and eventually disarm Hamas, but differ slightly in their outlook on the timeline and operational details. The Independent stresses the cautious optimism and the political implications, while AP underscores the logistical and security challenges involved in the process.
How we got here
The Rafah crossing has been largely shut since May 2024, when Israel seized control amid efforts to combat Hamas smuggling. The recent ceasefire, brokered by the U.S., began in October 2025, after over two years of conflict. The reopening aims to facilitate humanitarian aid, medical evacuations, and eventual reconstruction efforts, with international oversight to prevent misuse.
Go deeper
- What are the next steps for full reopening of the crossing?
- How will international agencies ensure security and aid delivery?
- What impact will this have on the broader Israel-Hamas ceasefire?
More on these topics
-
Egypt, officially the Arab Republic of Egypt, is a transcontinental country spanning the northeast corner of Africa and southwest corner of Asia by a land bridge formed by the Sinai Peninsula.
-
Benjamin Netanyahu is an Israeli politician serving as Prime Minister of Israel since 2009, and previously from 1996 to 1999. Netanyahu is also the Chairman of the Likud – National Liberal Movement.
-
The Gaza Strip, or simply Gaza, is a self-governing Palestinian territory on the eastern coast of the Mediterranean Sea, that borders Egypt on the southwest for 11 kilometers and Israel on the east and north along a 51 km border.