For thousands in Gaza, Rafah crossing reopens only partially

The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt has partially reopened, allowing limited pedestrian crossings after months of closure, offering a rare lifeline for Palestinians. Thousands of patients, students, and displaced families hope to cross for medical treatment, education, and aid, with Gaza’s health ministry saying 20,000 people are waiting to leave for care. However, Israel still controls the Palestinian side of the crossing, and humanitarian aid flows remain extremely restricted.