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Rafah Crossing Partially Reopens Under EU Oversight

The tightly limited pilot advances the U.S.-backed cease-fire plan, with IsraelEgypt vetting plus a ban on cargo.

Overview

  • Initial daily quotas are set at roughly 150 people exiting Gaza and about 50 entering, with the first patients crossing after hours of delays.
  • EU observers are supervising civilian transit as part of a revived mission, with small international teams deployed, including a Spanish Guardia Civil contingent.
  • Only pre-approved Gaza residents may travel, subject to Israeli and Egyptian security checks that include facial-recognition screening.
  • The opening excludes commercial goods and humanitarian shipments through Rafah, leaving aid to other routes as tens of thousands—including some 20,000 patients—await evacuation or treatment.
  • Israel’s move follows the recovery of the last hostage’s remains and is tied to the phased peace plan, while Egypt and Jordan reiterate opposition to any forced displacement of Palestinians.