Rafah Border Crossing Set to Reopen Amid Ongoing Tensions

Ali Shaath, the head of the newly established National Committee for the Administration of Gaza, announced on January 22, 2026, that the Rafah Border Crossing between Gaza and Egypt is expected to reopen next week for two-way travel. This announcement was made during a ceremony at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, where U.S. President Donald Trump launched a "Board of Peace" aimed at stabilizing the region. Shaath described the reopening as a "lifeline and symbol of opportunity" for Gaza, emphasizing the need for tangible improvements in daily life for its residents.

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Despite the announcement, Israel has not confirmed the reopening and has indicated that the crossing will remain closed until the remains of Police Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, the last Israeli hostage, are returned. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is set to convene the security cabinet to discuss the matter, with reports suggesting that Israel intends to restrict the number of Gazans entering the enclave to ensure that more individuals are allowed to exit than enter. The mechanisms for enforcing these entry restrictions remain unclear.

Report: Israel to seek control of Rafah Crossing to ensure more Gazans go out than in

The operational framework for the Rafah crossing includes remote monitoring and advanced screening by Israeli authorities, who will review travelers before they pass through. Although Israeli Defense Forces personnel will not be stationed inside the facility, they will operate nearby and maintain a separate checkpoint to prevent weapons smuggling. The European Union Border Assistance Mission and members of the Palestinian Authority’s intelligence service will patrol the crossing.

Rafah crossing to reopen under Israeli supervision

The reopening of Rafah has been described as "imposed" on Israel by U.S. and Arab mediators, including Egypt, Qatar, and Turkey. These mediators recognized that Israel was unlikely to agree to the reopening without external pressure. The announcement was made during a signing ceremony for the Board of Peace, highlighting the role of international diplomacy in facilitating the crossing's reopening.

Rafah crossing reopening was ‘imposed’ on Israel by Gaza mediators — officials

While the reopening is seen as a significant step, critics argue that its practical implications for Gazans may be limited. Humanitarian aid has been severely restricted, and rights groups emphasize the urgent need for basic supplies, including temporary housing materials. The UN has reported that while some recreational supplies for children have recently entered Gaza, many essential items remain blocked by Israel.

Rafah crossing reopening was ‘imposed’ on Israel by Gaza mediators — officials

Nikolay Mladenov, the UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace Process, confirmed the agreement to reopen the Rafah crossing and thanked the involved parties for their efforts. However, Israeli officials have reiterated that the crossing's operational status is contingent upon the return of Gvili's remains and the disarmament of Hamas.

UN confirms deal to reopen Rafah crossing as early as next week

There are discrepancies regarding the conditions under which the Rafah crossing will reopen. While some sources indicate that it will open for both entry and exit, others suggest that Israel will enforce strict limits on the number of Gazans allowed to return. Additionally, the exact timeline for the reopening remains uncertain, pending the outcome of discussions within the Israeli cabinet.

What we know so far about the reopening of Gaza's Rafah crossing

• “I am pleased to announce the Rafah crossing will open next week in both directions,” — Ali Shaath, Head of the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza

What we know so far about the reopening of Gaza's Rafah crossing

• “Until Ran Gvili is returned, the Rafah crossing will not open,” — Anonymous Israeli Official

Israel weighs Rafah crossing reopening as dispute grows over return of hostage Ran Gvili

• “This transition will succeed only if it delivers real, tangible improvements in daily life for Gaza,” — Ali Shaath

Gaza’s Rafah crossing to open next week in both directions, transition committee head says

The reopening of the Rafah crossing represents a critical juncture for Gaza, balancing humanitarian needs against ongoing security concerns and political negotiations.

UN confirms deal to reopen Rafah crossing as early as next week