Tue Feb 03 06:41:44 UTC 2026: ### Headline: Limited Rafah Crossing Reopening Offers Scant Relief to Gaza Amid Ongoing Restrictions

The Story:
The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt partially reopened on Monday, February 2, 2026, after being closed for over 18 months, but the impact was minimal. Only five Palestinian patients were allowed to leave Gaza for medical treatment in Egypt, and just 12 Palestinians were permitted to return. This falls significantly short of the promised 50 people in each direction. Israeli authorities imposed stringent security restrictions, hindering the free movement of people and goods, despite the urgent need for medical supplies and humanitarian aid. The reopening was intended to alleviate the dire situation in Gaza, but it has been criticized as insufficient.

Key Points:

  • The Rafah crossing reopened on February 2, 2026, after being closed for more than 18 months.
  • Only five patients were allowed to leave Gaza for medical treatment, and 12 Palestinians returned.
  • 20,000 patients in Gaza are estimated to need medical care outside of the territory.
  • Israeli authorities imposed tight security restrictions, limiting the number of people allowed to cross.
  • Humanitarian aid and medicine remain blocked from entering Gaza.
  • Israeli attacks on February 2, 2026, killed at least three Palestinians, raising the death toll since October 2023 to at least 71,800.

Key Takeaways:

  • The partial reopening of the Rafah crossing has failed to provide substantial relief to the humanitarian crisis in Gaza.
  • Israeli security restrictions are significantly impeding the movement of people and essential supplies.
  • The international community is calling for a genuine humanitarian corridor to deliver life-saving aid to Gaza.
  • The situation underscores the continuing dire need for medical assistance and humanitarian aid within Gaza.
  • Despite international calls for a ceasefire and unimpeded aid, violence and restrictions persist.

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