Only one-third of expected Palestinians cross reopened Rafah crossing, Gaza officials say

2026-02-19 - 12:32

Gaza's government media office disclosed Thursday that only 1,148 Palestinians have traversed the Rafah border crossing with Egypt since its limited reopening on February 2, representing roughly one-third of the 3,400 travelers anticipated during that period. The statement documented 640 departures from Gaza and 508 returns between February 2-18, with 26 individuals turned back during attempted exits, attributing the shortfall to approximately 33% Israeli compliance with understandings linked to the October 10 ceasefire agreement. Medical Needs and Movement Restrictions According to Israeli and Egyptian media reports, arrangements had provided for daily passage of 50 Palestinians entering Gaza and 50 patients exiting to Egypt, each accompanied by two escorts. Israel reopened the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing on February 2 after controlling it since May 2024, but under tight restrictions. Gaza officials emphasize that approximately 22,000 wounded and chronically ill residents require medical travel abroad, as the enclave's health system remains severely degraded following Israel's two-year war. Separate figures indicate nearly 80,000 Palestinians have registered to return to Gaza. Ceasefire Context and Ongoing Violations The US-backed ceasefire has been in effect since October 10, halting the two-year war that has killed more than 72,000 Palestinians, mostly women and children, and injured over 171,000 since October 2023. Despite the agreement, Gaza's Health Ministry reports Israeli forces have committed hundreds of violations through shelling and gunfire, killing 611 Palestinians and injuring 1,630 others. The Rafah crossing delays compound humanitarian challenges facing Gaza's population as the fragile ceasefire continues amid widespread destruction and restricted movement.