Nearly two years since the Rafah crossing was closed families await developments
Planned reopening of the Rafah crossing after nearly two years renews hope in Gaza, Save the Children said.
Nearly two years since the Rafah crossing was closed in May 2024, people in Gaza are anxiously awaiting news of its potential reopening following the discovery of the last remaining hostage. The crossing has become the focus of renewed hope as families wait for the possibility of medical evacuations, education opportunities for students, reunification, and the movement of urgently needed aid.
Shurouq, Multimedia Manager Gaza, Save the Children, said:
"All eyes are now on the Rafah border as the futures of hundreds and thousands of children depend on it. Since the crossing was closed nearly two years ago people have been waiting for a two-way unconditional opening. Thousands in Gaza have been waiting to evacuate for vital medical treatment, students to take up their scholarships abroad after years of disrupted education caused by destroyed classrooms and lost learning opportunities, and families longing for reunification with some waiting to return to their loved ones in Gaza.
"Families in Gaza are waiting with cautious optimism and anticipation as the Israeli authorities determine the next steps on the potential opening of the Rafah crossing. The reports are a welcome development that offers hope for many in Gaza, but there should never have been conditions on unfettered access through Rafah. It must be opened both ways to allow for the safe passage of humanitarian aid and civilian movement.
"Every day, medicine, aid, and basic goods have been prevented from reaching those who need them most due to Israeli authorities' restrictions with catastrophic consequences for Gaza’s children. What is needed now is the immediate and urgent opening of Rafah and all border crossings and the safe, unrestricted passage of humanitarian assistance."
ENDS