Gaza's Border Reopens: What's the Catch?

Key Points:

• Israel aims to manage the flow of people in and out of Gaza through the Rafah border crossing with Egypt.
• The crossing is the primary entry and exit point for Gaza's 2 million residents.
• Israel intends to ensure more people leave Gaza than enter, though specifics on controls and ratios remain undisclosed.

Operational Details:

• The Rafah Crossing will be operated by Palestinians affiliated with the Palestinian Authority and overseen by European Union personnel.
• Israel plans to establish a military checkpoint inside Gaza, requiring all individuals to pass through for verification by Israeli soldiers.
• Unclear consequences if individuals are denied passage.

Political and Strategic Context:

• Some Israeli officials advocate for the border to remain closed until Hamas returns the body of an Israeli police officer captured during the conflict.
• The U.S. is spearheading a multi-phase plan to end the war in Gaza.
• Phase 1: Israel has partially withdrawn forces but retains control over most of the border.
• Current Situation: Nearly all of Gaza's population resides in areas controlled by Hamas, with many displaced in tents or damaged structures.