Full Breakdown
Gazans Face Challenges at Rafah Crossing
2/23/2026, 9:53:19 PM
Current Situation at Rafah Crossing
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt remains a critical point for many Gazans seeking medical care and voluntary return. Despite the reopening of the crossing, the number of individuals permitted to cross remains limited, with only 80 to 100 crossings occurring daily. This figure is insufficient given that approximately 20,000 Gazans are currently awaiting medical treatment abroad, according to the Gaza Health Ministry. The slow pace of crossings means that it could take over a year to address the urgent medical needs of those waiting.
Personal Accounts of Struggle
Among those affected is a 10-year-old boy, Ibrahim, who requires extensive rehabilitation after sustaining severe injuries from an Israeli bomb attack. His mother, Khadija, expressed her desperation, stating, "My son can’t walk... How long will my son have to wait?" The family is eager for Ibrahim to receive a new prosthetic hand and continue his treatment in Egypt, but the lengthy waiting list has left them in a state of uncertainty.
Another individual, journalist Hamza Chalan, who left Gaza in May 2024, is also facing challenges. He wishes to return to Gaza but is concerned about the rigorous checks and potential risks at the crossing. Chalan noted, "The crossing is very risky, but here, we are facing death by a thousand cuts anyway." He described the arduous process of crossing, which involves multiple checkpoints and the possibility of being subjected to searches by armed gangs.
Risks and Concerns at the Crossing
Reports indicate the presence of armed gangs at the Rafah crossing, complicating the already difficult journey for those attempting to cross. Chalan highlighted the fear associated with these gangs, stating, "If any member of your family is linked to something, then it can all go very badly." The situation is exacerbated by the political complexities in Gaza, where various factions challenge Hamas's authority, creating an environment of uncertainty and danger.
Official Statements & Responses
The European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) has been monitoring the situation at Rafah, emphasizing the need for increased crossings to meet the urgent medical needs of Gazans. However, the current operational capacity does not reflect the demand. The ongoing conflict and accusations of ceasefire violations between Hamas and the Israeli Army further complicate the situation, with both sides blaming each other for the continued violence.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While many individuals are eager to cross into Egypt for medical treatment or to return home, the exact number of people successfully crossing remains unclear. Eyewitness accounts suggest that some individuals have waited for years to be allowed to leave, highlighting a significant gap in the system that fails to address the urgent needs of those affected.
Verbatim Quotes
- "My son can’t walk. He is currently in a hospital focused on rehabilitation... How long will my son have to wait?" — Khadija, Mother of Ibrahim
- "The crossing is very risky, but here, we are facing death by a thousand cuts anyway." — Hamza Chalan, Journalist
- "If any member of your family is linked to something, then it can all go very badly." — Hamza Chalan, Journalist
The situation at the Rafah crossing continues to evolve, with many Gazans caught in a cycle of waiting and uncertainty as they seek medical care or a return to their homeland.
