Gaza Administration Releases Registration Rules for Rafah Crossing
Ali Shaath, who heads the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, said in a statement that the resumption of activity at the crossing carries broader significance. “The reopening of the Rafah crossing ‘is not merely an administrative measure, but the beginning of a long path…to open a genuine window of hope for our people in the Gaza Strip,’” he said.
After nearly two years of closure imposed by Israel and governed by strict conditions, the Rafah crossing partially resumed operations on Monday. However, there was no immediate confirmation that any Palestinians had successfully passed through the terminal on the first day.
Shaath described the restart as the result of coordinated efforts among multiple parties. He said the process “‘embodies a cooperative achievement with the participation of partners committed to facilitating movement, as a core component of (Gaza)’s 20-point plan launched by US President Donald Trump,’” according to his statement.
He added that sustained coordination is underway to ensure the reopening leads to wider stability. “‘We are working with full effort and determination, in cooperation with the mediators, the Palestinian Authority, and the Board of Peace led by President Trump, to ensure that this step serves as an entry point to broader arrangements for stability, the restoration of basic services, and the groundwork for relief, recovery, and reconstruction,’” Shaath said.
Details regarding how individuals can apply to cross, who will be prioritized, and when travel will take place will be shared officially, he emphasized. “‘The registration mechanisms, priority criteria, and travel schedules will be announced through official, approved channels, to ensure transparency, organization, and equal opportunity among citizens,’” he said.
Shaath also praised Egypt for facilitating the reopening in both directions, calling its role “‘the exceptional and responsible role,’” and expressed appreciation for the mediators “‘who contributed to achieving this process.’”
According to reports, the committee believes the partial reopening will be crucial for humanitarian needs, especially for medical cases. Shaath said the crossing is expected to help those requiring urgent care abroad, including patients and wounded individuals, as well as students, people seeking family reunification, and others facing humanitarian hardships.
Based on reports, roughly 150 Palestinians are expected to be permitted to leave Gaza daily, while around 50 people will be allowed to enter through Rafah each day.
Health authorities in Gaza estimate that approximately 22,000 patients are awaiting full access to the crossing so they can travel overseas for medical treatment.
The Rafah terminal, a key gateway for humanitarian assistance, was seized by Israel in May 2024, nearly nine months into Tel Aviv’s war on Gaza, which has resulted in more than 71,000 deaths and over 171,000 injuries since October 2023, according to figures cited by officials.
Although the crossing had been slated to reopen in October as part of the initial phase of a ceasefire agreement, Israel reportedly delayed the move until it received the final captive held in Gaza, an exchange that was completed last week.
Despite the ceasefire arrangement, Israeli military actions have continued. According to Gaza’s media office, 524 people have been killed and 1,360 others injured since October 10.
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