Palestinians await the reopening of the Rafah crossing between delayed hope and threatened lives – Algerian Al-Hiwar newspaper

In Gaza, the Palestinians stranded on both sides of the Rafah border crossing stand in a state of anxiety and despair, after communication with their families has been cut off or their urgent need for urgent medical care, while the reopening of the crossing has been delayed as part of the implementation of the ceasefire agreement concluded last October.

Despite the announcement of a partial opening of the crossing, ambiguity still surrounds the conditions of crossing and the ability to pass to and from Egypt.

As the entity continues to have complete control over the borders, this increases the suffering of those waiting and makes the hope of travel or return postponed.

The Rafah crossing was partially opened with the outbreak of war between the entity and Hamas, before it was permanently closed in the summer of 2024.

While only a small number of Palestinians were able to travel during that period.

Potential returnees to Gaza face a devastating reality.

Homes and neighborhoods were completely destroyed during the two-year Israeli military campaign following the Hamas attack on October 7, 2023.

As for those seeking to leave, the new restrictions raise fears that they will remain stuck outside the Strip for a long time.

In the midst of these circumstances, the stranded people live moments of painful waiting and health and social anxiety.

With little hope that opening the crossing will contribute to alleviating their suffering and restoring some stability to their daily lives.