The Rafah border crossing the only Gaza-Egypt gateway was reopened on Tuesday, January 28, 2026, after being closed for nearly a year, marking one of the most significant humanitarian and diplomatic developments since the Israel-Hamas war escalated in late 2023.
Egyptian authorities confirmed the crossing is now operational for humanitarian aid, medical evacuations, and limited civilian movement in both directions, following intensive mediation by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States as part of the broader cease-fire framework.
Reopening Scope: Initial phase allows entry of fuel, food, medical supplies, and construction materials into Gaza. Limited outbound movement is permitted for critically ill patients, foreign passport holders, and some dual nationals.
Closure Duration: Rafah has been closed to regular traffic since May 2024, when Israeli forces took control of the Gaza side during operations in Rafah city. Egypt kept its side sealed in protest and for security reasons.
Cease-Fire Context: The reopening is widely seen as a confidence-building measure under the phased cease-fire deal that began in late 2025. It follows the release of hostages/prisoners, partial Israeli troop withdrawals from parts of Gaza, and commitments to sustained humanitarian corridors.
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Immediate Impact: Aid trucks began crossing within hours of the announcement. UN agencies (UNRWA, WHO) described it as “a lifeline” for Gaza’s 2.3 million residents facing severe shortages of food, medicine, and fuel.
Egyptian Government: Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty called it “a victory for diplomacy and humanitarian principles.”
Hamas: Welcomed the move but urged full, permanent opening and unrestricted aid flow.
Israel: Defence Minister Yoav Gallant stated Israel would monitor crossings closely to prevent weapons smuggling, but did not oppose the humanitarian reopening.
United Nations: Secretary-General António Guterres said: “This is a step forward, but only a step. We need sustained, safe, and unimpeded access to Gaza.”
The reopening is expected to ease some of the humanitarian crisis in Gaza, though full restoration of normal civilian movement and trade remains pending further implementation of the cease-fire phases.
By Ogungbayi Beedee Adeyemi
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