The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened last week for the first time since 2024, offering a glimmer of hope for Palestinians seeking medical care abroad. Despite the reopening, only a small number of patients and their companions have been allowed to cross, with United Nations data showing just 36 patients and 62 companions permitted to leave in the first four days. Many Palestinians have reported facing significant delays and allegations of mistreatment by Israeli forces and other groups involved in the crossing's operation.

Nearly 20,000 people in Gaza are seeking to leave for medical treatment, as local healthcare services remain severely limited due to the ongoing conflict. Families gathered at hospitals and the border in hopes of being included in the daily lists of those allowed to cross, but restrictions mean that far fewer people than expected are able to travel. The crossing's reopening is part of a fragile ceasefire deal, but confusion and intermittent closures have added to the difficulties faced by those trying to leave or return to Gaza.

Palestinians returning to Gaza have also described hours-long delays and invasive searches, highlighting the complex and heavily controlled nature of the border. The Rafah crossing, once Gaza's only gateway not controlled by Israel, remains a critical lifeline for those in need, but ongoing negotiations and security measures continue to restrict movement.