Egypt to Reopen Gazas Rafah Crossing Next Week

US-Backed Leader Announces Reopening of Gaza Border Crossing

During a virtual event hosted by US President Donald Trump at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland, Ali Shaath, a technocrat leader backed by Washington, announced that the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will reopen next week. The announcement was made on Thursday.

Shaath stated that the reopening of the Rafah crossing is significant for Palestinians in Gaza, as it represents a lifeline and symbol of opportunity. He also emphasized that opening the crossing signals that Gaza is no longer closed to the future and to peace.

The decision comes after the October 10 ceasefire took effect under Trump’s plan, which left Israel in control of more than half of Gaza beyond the yellow line, including the area adjacent to the border crossing. The reopening of the Rafah crossing would mark a shift from an earlier Israeli policy that restricted the crossing to only allow residents to exit.

The US has announced the formation of a technocratic committee, known as the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza (NCAG), which will oversee the transition of power in Gaza. Shaath was designated as the general commissioner of the body. The committee’s chairman will be part of a “Board of Peace”, which Trump formally launched on Thursday.

The board is expected to operate under the supervision of the US, with a $1 billion price tag for permanent membership. The board’s charter does not appear to limit its role to the Palestinian territory, raising concerns about its potential scope.

Source: Al Jazeera