Rafah border crossing reopens but few people get through

The Rafah crossing reopened this week under a limited pilot arrangement, but far fewer people than expected crossed and the crossing was later closed for two days.

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened this week as part of a negotiated pilot after two years of war. Negotiators set daily limits on who could return to Gaza and who could leave for medical care. Far fewer people than expected passed through, and officials reported long delays and disagreements over eligibility. Some Palestinian travelers reported being handcuffed or blindfolded during screening, while Israeli authorities said no incidents of mistreatment are known. Key facts: - Negotiators agreed to allow about 50 people to return to Gaza each day and 50 medical patients to leave, each patient allowed two companions. - United Nations data show that over the first four days only 36 medical patients left Gaza, accompanied by 62 companions. - Several returning travelers reported lengthy interrogations and restraints during Israeli screening; Israeli military officials reported no known incidents of inappropriate conduct. - The crossing was closed on Friday and Saturday amid confusion around the reopening. Summary: The limited flow through Rafah has left many Palestinians unable to travel for medical care or to return home, and initial operations fell short of negotiated daily limits. Officials described the opening as a pilot that could be expanded if it runs smoothly; the near-term status is undetermined at this time.