Rafah Crossing Reopens After 20-Day Closure; Limited Medical Evacuations Resume

The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened on March 19 for limited movement after a 20-day suspension tied to Israel's 'Operation Roaring Lion' war with Iran that began February 28. The EU Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM Rafah) resumed operations following an agreement between Israeli, Egyptian, and Palestinian authorities. On the first day, 25 individuals exited Gaza — including 9 medical cases — and 25 entered. OCHA noted that 18,000 patients in Gaza urgently need treatment abroad. Kerem Shalom remains the only crossing for cargo, creating a severe bottleneck for humanitarian supplies.