Israel reopened the Rafah border crossing on Thursday after nearly three weeks, allowing some wounded Palestinians to leave Gaza for urgent medical treatment. The move aims to support civilians amid rising violence and preserve the fragile ceasefire strained by US and Israeli strikes on Iran. Access remains limited, affecting injured patients and their families who seek urgent medical care.
The Palestinian Red Crescent Society confirmed that eight Palestinians injured in Israeli attacks, along with 17 family members, were permitted into Egypt. Authorities have not yet clarified how many will be allowed to return from Egypt back into Gaza, raising uncertainty for those seeking temporary refuge.
Read more: Rafah crossing reopens, hope returns for Gaza families
The border reopening followed talks in Cairo between envoys from President Donald Trump’s “Board of Peace” and Hamas officials. These discussions aimed to preserve the Gaza ceasefire, which has faced serious strain since US-Israeli strikes on Iran began on February 28, highlighting the regional impact of the conflict.
Despite the temporary relief, Israeli attacks have increased again, with two airstrikes in Gaza City killing at least four Palestinians on Thursday. Local health officials report nearly 680 Palestinians have been killed since the October ceasefire, while Israel says four soldiers were killed by Hamas fighters during the same period. The renewed violence threatens the stability of the truce and endangers civilians.
Read more: Wounded Palestinians leave Gaza as Rafah crossing finally reopens
Israel and Hamas continue to exchange blame for truce violations, raising concerns about the ceasefire’s sustainability. The limited reopening of the Rafah crossing provides short-term relief but highlights ongoing humanitarian and security challenges in Gaza. Authorities urge civilians to remain cautious and comply with safety measures as tensions persist.