Rafah Crossing Reopens to Gaza: Limited Access Begins Today, February 2, 2026

Rafah Crossing Reopens: A Fragile Lifeline for Gaza

Palestinians in Gaza are watching with both hope and caution as the Rafah border crossing with Egypt began reopening today, February 2, 2026. This crossing represents a critical lifeline for the territory, particularly as Israel’s ceasefire with Hamas progresses. However, initial access is limited, sparking concerns about the scale of aid and movement that will be permitted.

Limited Access and Growing Concerns

While the reopening is a positive step, Ghalia Abu Mustafa, a resident of Khan Younis, expressed concern over restrictions on the number of people allowed to cross. Initial reports indicate only a small number of people will be permitted to travel at first. Suhaila Al-Astal, displaced from Rafah, highlighted the urgent need for broader access, particularly for those requiring medical attention abroad.

Israel has stated the crossing opened in a test phase, with residents able to begin crossing today. The initial plan allows for 50 patients needing medical evacuation to leave daily, each accompanied by two relatives, alongside 50 Palestinians returning to Gaza. However, the Gaza Health Ministry has not yet been officially notified about the start of medical evacuations.

International Oversight and Security

The operation of the Rafah crossing will be jointly overseen by Israel and Egypt, with European Union border patrol agents providing supervision. Both countries will vet individuals for entry and exit. This arrangement reflects a historical pattern of vetting procedures for Palestinians crossing the border.

Humanitarian Impact and Restrictions

Approximately 20,000 Palestinian children and adults require medical care and are hoping to leave Gaza via the crossing. Thousands more Palestinians outside the territory seek to return home. The limited initial capacity raises questions about how quickly these needs can be addressed.

The reopening comes after the Rafah crossing was largely shut since May 2024. The ceasefire, which began on October 10, has been punctuated by periods of conflict, including recent Israeli strikes that resulted in at least 30 Palestinian deaths, including children, according to hospital officials.

Doctors Without Borders Facing Suspension

Adding to the complex humanitarian situation, Israel’s Diaspora Ministry announced plans to terminate the operations of Doctors Without Borders in Gaza by February 28. This decision stems from the organization’s refusal to comply with new registration requirements, which Doctors Without Borders argues could endanger Palestinian staff. Israel maintains these requirements are aimed at preventing Hamas infiltration of aid groups.

The suspension of Doctors Without Borders, which provides funding and staff for six hospitals and runs multiple clinics and stabilization centers for malnourished children, is expected to have a “catastrophic impact” on healthcare in Gaza, a sector already devastated by two years of bombardment and supply restrictions. Over two dozen humanitarian organizations have faced similar suspensions.

The Ceasefire’s Next Phase

The current ceasefire includes an exchange of hostages held in Gaza for Palestinian prisoners held by Israel, increased humanitarian aid, and a partial Israeli troop withdrawal. The second phase, however, is more challenging, involving the establishment of a new Palestinian committee to govern Gaza, the deployment of an international security force, disarmament of Hamas, and reconstruction efforts.

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FAQ

Q: When did the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas begin?
A: The ceasefire began on October 10.

Q: What is the initial daily capacity of the Rafah crossing?
A: Initially, 50 patients and their families (two relatives per patient) will be allowed to leave, and 50 Palestinians will be allowed to return.

Q: Why is Doctors Without Borders facing suspension in Gaza?
A: Israel suspended the organization due to its refusal to comply with new registration requirements for aid organizations.

Q: What was the death toll reported following recent Israeli strikes?
A: Hospital officials reported at least 30 Palestinian deaths, including several children.

Did you know? The Rafah crossing was the main crossing for people moving in and out of Gaza before the war.

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