The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt resumed operations on Monday, February 2, 2026, marking a significant development after remaining closed since May 2024. Initial reports from Egyptian state-linked media indicate controlled movement will characterize the reopening phase.
According to AlQahera News, which maintains connections to Egyptian state intelligence, approximately fifty people are expected to transit from Egypt into Gaza while another fifty will move in the opposite direction during the initial operational days. An unnamed source quoted by the outlet described these numbers as part of a carefully managed reactivation of the critical border point.
Independent verification from the ground confirms early activity, with an AFP source at the border observing several dozen individuals gathered on the Egyptian side awaiting processing and entry into Gaza. The reopening follows Israel’s announcement on February 1 regarding the crossing’s partial restoration, though specific operational details and eligibility criteria for crossing remain subject to ongoing coordination between Egyptian and Israeli authorities.
The reactivation of Rafah crossing represents a crucial humanitarian corridor for Gaza’s population, potentially enabling family reunifications, medical transfers, and limited commercial movement. However, the initial limited capacity suggests a phased approach to border normalization rather than an immediate return to full operational status.