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The reopening of the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt has sparked significant concern as Palestinian returnees recount troubling experiences involving militia checks and prolonged delays. Only a fraction of those expected to cross were able to enter Gaza on Monday, raising questions about the coordination between Israeli forces and local militia groups during this delicate phase of border management.
Limited Returnees Amid Heightened Security
After the Rafah crossing’s reopening, reports indicate that only 12 Palestinians were allowed to return to Gaza, despite prior assurances that 50 individuals would be processed each day. Eyewitness accounts describe a complicated and sometimes distressing experience. Lamia Rabia, a Gazan mother, shared her ordeal of being escorted to an Israeli checkpoint where she underwent searches conducted by members of the Abu Shabab militia—an anti-Hamas group operating under Israeli military oversight.
Rabia detailed the unsettling process: “There was a woman from the Abu Shabab group who conducted the searches on the women. They didn’t speak with us; they only searched us before we went to the Israelis, who questioned us.” The presence of both Israeli forces and the militia at this checkpoint raises significant questions about the nature of their coordination, which the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) have declined to address.
Militia Involvement and Allegations of Abuse
The Abu Shabab militia, known for its opposition to Hamas and its ties to Israel, has been vocal about its role in security at the Rafah crossing. Ghassan al-Dheini, the militia’s leader, stated that they would play a crucial part in managing entry and exit procedures. However, the experiences of returnees suggest that the militia’s involvement may not be solely about security. One woman, who remains anonymous for safety reasons, alleged mistreatment, claiming she was beaten and strip-searched alongside other female returnees.
The European Union, which has monitors stationed at the crossing, is reportedly considering adjustments to its procedures in light of these troubling accounts. Rabia and her fellow travellers reported that EU officials confiscated a variety of personal belongings, including perfumes, cosmetics, and even money, with limits imposed on financial carry-in amounts.
Confusion and Challenges at the Crossing
The reopening of Rafah has been marred by confusion surrounding the number of individuals allowed to cross. A Palestinian employee at the crossing reported that many travellers were turned away without explanation, despite prior security checks. This has resulted in frustration among families waiting to reunite. Awad Abu Talha, a relative of several passengers, expressed his dismay after waiting hours only to see his family sent back to Egypt due to what was described as a “technical problem.”
Despite the current turmoil, the World Health Organization has indicated that a small number of patients were able to leave Gaza for medical treatment. However, this is merely a fraction of the estimated 20,000 Palestinians in need of urgent medical care abroad.
The Broader Implications of Rafah’s Reopening
The reopening of the Rafah crossing marks a pivotal moment in the ongoing struggle for control and governance in Gaza. The new travel protocols, which aim to bypass Hamas’s influence, are increasingly under strain. Reports suggest that Hamas officials have begun to intervene in the evacuation process, asserting their authority despite the establishment of a new administration under the Trump peace plan.
The chaos surrounding Rafah highlights the deep-seated challenges that lie ahead. As the situation continues to evolve, it remains to be seen how the dynamics between Israel, the Palestinian Authority, and local militias will shape the future of Gaza.
Why it Matters
The developments at Rafah are more than a logistical concern; they represent the complex interplay of power, security, and humanitarian needs in one of the world’s most volatile regions. As more Palestinians seek safe passage and medical care, the handling of the Rafah crossing will not only affect individual lives but also the broader political landscape. The involvement of local militias, potential abuses, and the struggle for authority underscore the fragility of peace efforts in the region and highlight the urgent need for a coherent strategy that prioritises the welfare of the Palestinian people.
