First Buses of Returnees Arrive in Gaza Strip via Rafah Crossing as Part of Truce Agreement

Palestinian sources reported the arrival of a bus carrying 12 returning travelers to the Gaza Strip via the Rafah land crossing, as part of the partial and limited re-operation of the crossing in both directions starting from February 2, 2026. This event comes within the implementation of the second phase of the ceasefire agreement, after a closure that lasted more than a year and a half since the occupation forces took control of it in May 2024.

Under the agreed arrangements, approximately 50 people are allowed to enter the Gaza Strip daily, most of whom are patients who have completed their treatment abroad or are stranded. The occupation authorities impose strict restrictions on luggage; only one bag, one mobile phone, and an amount not exceeding $600 are allowed, with electrical and metal devices prohibited. Returnees are also subjected to security checks by the occupation at a military point in coordination with Egypt and under the supervision of the European Union mission.

In the opposite direction, it was decided to allow the exit of between 150-200 people daily, mostly patients and injured individuals. However, the occupation imposed restrictions that drew Palestinian criticism, such as sometimes reducing the numbers to only 50 and without escorts, and forcing some departing individuals to pass through the Kerem Shalom crossing first. This mechanism raises fears of using the crossing as a political bargaining chip, given the thousands of stranded patients and students.

The Rafah crossing is Gaza's only land outlet to the outside world without passing through the occupation territories. While the United Nations and humanitarian organizations demand the unimpeded opening of the crossing to facilitate the entry of aid, residents hope for a gradual expansion of crossing movement with the stabilization of the truce, despite the strict security measures currently imposed.