This week, the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened after two years of conflict, which officials described as a 'window of hope' amid a fragile ceasefire. However, this potential hope is overshadowed by complications related to who is allowed to cross, with delays stretching up to several hours causing frustration among those seeking passage. Reports from Palestinian travelers indicate they have faced treatment from Israeli soldiers, including shackling and interrogation, which further complicates the crossing experience.

Despite the initial optimism surrounding the reopening, the numbers reflect a stark reality. Restrictions were put in place through negotiations between Israeli, Egyptian, Palestinian, and international officials, limiting the daily movement to just 50 individuals returning to Gaza and allowing only 50 medical patients with two companions to exit. In the opening days of the crossing, the actual numbers indicate significant underutilization of the crossing, as only 36 medical patients and their accompanying relatives managed to travel to Egypt in the first four days, according to United Nations data.

This situation highlights not only the tenuous nature of the ceasefire but also the ongoing humanitarian crisis facing many in Gaza. With such stringent regulations and experiences of intimidation at checkpoints, the reopening of the Rafah crossing, which was initially seen as a hopeful development, instead reveals the complexities of border politics in a conflict that remains unresolved. These developments could affect ongoing aid efforts and exacerbate the difficulties faced by civilians who require medical assistance or wish to escape the conflict area.