• The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened for medical evacuations after nine months.
• The first group of patients includes 50 sick and wounded Gazans, allowed to transfer to Egypt.
• This reopening is part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, following the release of hostages.
• Thousands of patients await evacuation, with many in urgent need of medical care.

The crucial Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt has reopened for medical evacuations for the first time since it was closed nine months ago due to an intense Israeli offensive. As part of a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, the crossing will initially facilitate the transfer of 50 medical patients, including children, to Egypt for urgent medical care. This reopening marks a significant breakthrough amid the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Gaza, where medical services have been severely compromised due to prolonged conflict.

According to AP News, the Rafah crossing is Gaza’s only passage to the outside world that is not controlled directly by Israel, making it a vital route for medical evacuations. The Health Ministry in Gaza estimates that around 12,000 patients are in dire need of treatment abroad, a number that reflects the devastating impact of the recent war, which has left many hospitals inoperative and overcrowded.

The reopening of Rafah is seen as a pivotal step in the implementation of the ceasefire agreement, which was solidified after the release of female hostages held by Hamas and subsequent negotiations involving Egypt and the European Union. European monitors will oversee the management of the crossing in cooperation with personnel from the Palestinian Authority, as reported by The New York Times.

During the initial phase of this reopening, the evacuation of only a small number of patients has prompted concerns about the adequacy of care for the many thousands remaining in need. Mohammed Zaqout, the Health Ministry director, highlighted the urgency when he stated, “the small numbers set to be evacuated will not cover the need, and we hope the number will increase,” asserting that more than 6,000 patients were ready for treatment outside the enclave.

This development, heralded by security arrangements and diplomatic negotiations, underscores a moment of relief for many in Gaza, where systemic issues have persisted under continuous blockade, as noted by The Guardian and WHO representatives.

As talks for the next phase of the ceasefire deal progress, the reopening of the Rafah crossing is seen as a potential pathway to greater humanitarian access and a symbol of hope for recovery amidst the turmoil.

For further details, visit the full article on Al Jazeera.