The situation remains dire for many in Gaza, with the Health Ministry reporting that approximately 20,000 patients are in critical need of medical evacuation. Tragically, medical authorities have indicated that 10 of the 20,000 individuals on the evacuation list lose their lives each day while waiting for the opportunity to cross at Rafah. The urgent need for a more efficient and humanitarian approach to the crossing remains a pressing concern for all involved.

On February 2, Israel officially reopened the Rafah crossing after a trial run the day prior. According to Israeli media reports, only about 150 Palestinians will be permitted to leave Gaza each day, specifically, 50 patients along with two companions each, and an additional 50 individuals stranded on the Egyptian side will be allowed to enter. This daily quota is significantly lower than anticipated.

The crossing was notably closed on both Friday and Saturday, highlighting the inconsistent access. In the week following the partial reopening, local Gaza authorities reported that just 397 travelers managed to pass through the Rafah border crossing to Egypt, underscoring the stringent restrictions in place.