Exclusive-Israel aims to ensure more Palestinians are let out of Gaza than back in

The Rafah Border Crossing, the primary gateway for the more than 2 million residents of Gaza, is expected to open next week, but its operation will be subject to restrictions imposed by Israel. These restrictions aim to ensure more Palestinians are permitted to exit Gaza than enter, according to three sources familiar with the matter.

Controlling Movement Through Rafah

The planned opening follows a ceasefire agreement reached in October between Israel and Hamas, and aligns with the second phase of a plan initially proposed by President Donald Trump. This phase anticipates further Israeli troop withdrawals from Gaza and a potential handover of administrative control to Hamas.

Did You Know? The Gaza side of the Rafah Border Crossing has been under Israeli military control since 2024.

While the border is slated to be staffed by Palestinians affiliated with the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority and monitored by EU personnel – mirroring a previous arrangement – Israel intends to implement controls on the flow of people. The specifics of how these limits will be enforced, and the desired ratio of exits to entries, remain unclear.

Security Concerns and Checkpoints

Israel also seeks to establish a military checkpoint within Gaza, near the border. All Palestinians entering or leaving the territory would be required to pass through this checkpoint and undergo Israeli security checks. Two sources confirmed that Israeli officials have strongly advocated for this measure.

Expert Insight: The proposed checkpoint and restrictions on entry suggest a continued emphasis on security concerns and a desire to maintain a degree of control over movement in and out of Gaza, even as the broader political plan progresses.

The U.S. Embassy in Israel has not yet commented on whether it supports these proposed limitations or the establishment of the checkpoint. U.S. officials, speaking privately, have indicated that Washington is primarily driving the implementation of the Trump plan.

Currently, the Israeli military controls 53% of the territory, including the entire land border with Egypt. Much of the remaining population resides under Hamas control, often in temporary or damaged housing.

The opening of the border has faced previous objections from the Israeli government, with some officials citing the need for Hamas to return the remains of an Israeli police officer held in Gaza as a precondition.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the Rafah Border Crossing?

The Rafah Border Crossing is effectively the sole route in or out of Gaza for nearly all of the more than 2 million people who live there.

What is the current status of Israeli forces in Gaza?

Under the initial phase of the plan, the Israeli military partially withdrew its forces, but retains control of 53% of the territory, including the entire land border with Egypt.

What role is the Palestinian Authority expected to play?

The Rafah Crossing is expected to be staffed by Palestinians affiliated with the Ramallah-based Palestinian Authority.

How might these restrictions impact the daily lives of Palestinians in Gaza?