The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, the territory’s main outlet to the outside world, is set to reopen next week for two-way travel after months of near-total closure during Israel’s assault, Palestinian officials said Thursday.
Ali Shaath, chairman of Gaza’s newly formed National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, said preparations are underway to resume operations at the crossing, a critical artery for humanitarian aid, medical evacuations and limited civilian movement.
The reopening would mark one of the most concrete steps yet toward easing Gaza’s isolation since the war erupted in October 2023.
“I am pleased to announce that the Rafah crossing will open next week in both directions for Palestinians in Gaza,” Shaath said while addressing a ceremony in Davos, Switzerland, on the sidelines of the World Economic Forum.
He described Rafah as “a lifeline and a symbol of opportunity,” adding that its reopening signals that Gaza “is no longer closed to the future.”
