Palestinians attempting to return to the Gaza Strip through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt describe interrogations, detentions and alleged pressure tactics, including offers of money to leave or cooperate with the Israeli army, according to testimonies and human rights groups.
On Wednesday, Gaza's Government Media Office said only 488 travelers of 1,800 had been able to cross Rafah in both directions since its reopening through Tuesday -- an Israeli compliance rate of about 27%.
In a statement, the office said 275 people left Gaza while 213 entered, and 26 travelers were denied permission to leave for Egypt during the same period.
Israel reopened the Palestinian side of the crossing on Feb. 2 after closing it since May 2024, but only in a very limited manner and under extremely strict conditions.
Documented violations
