Israel opened the Rafah crossing for limited pedestrian movement on February 2, the first time civilians have been permitted to transit this crossing since October 7, 2023. The reopening follows a pilot operation conducted on February 1.

The reopening is a notable development in the implementation of the US-brokered Gaza peace plan. Hamas previously asserted it would only consider disarmament after the Rafah crossing reopens, with the Palestinian technocratic administration established by the peace plan slated to lead negotiations on the issue.

Passage will initially be restricted exclusively to Gazans, the Israeli government confirmed, with foreign journalists barred from entering the territory. Authorities estimate approximately 200 people per day will be able to cross, with departures significantly outnumbering returns, approximately 150 exits versus 50 entries.

Israeli officials indicated that, as a show of goodwill, the new 15-member technocratic government is scheduled to enter Gaza via Rafah in the coming days. 

Israel will vet and approve individual exit lists, whilst the crossing itself will be managed by Gazan authorities under European Union supervision. Although Israeli forces will not maintain physical presence at the site, a remote monitoring system enables Israeli security services to block unauthorised travellers, particularly those deemed security concerns, including Hamas leaders.

Residents cleared to enter Gaza will be transported by bus to an Israeli checkpoint for biometric identification, facial recognition, and body searches. The stated objective is ensuring only approved individuals enter the territory whilst preventing weapons smuggling or other banned materials from crossing the border.