BAITULMAQDIS – Israel said it reopened the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt on Sunday, but only in a limited capacity, allowing passage solely for Palestinian residents of the territory.
“In accordance with the ceasefire agreement and a directive of the political echelon, the Rafah Crossing was opened today for the limited passage of residents only,” COGAT, the Israeli defence ministry body coordinating Palestinian civilian affairs, said.
“As part of this, an initial pilot phase began today, conducted in coordination with the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM), Egypt, and all relevant stakeholders.”
COGAT said that all involved parties were carrying out “preliminary preparations aimed at increasing readiness for full operation of the crossing”.
“The actual passage of residents in both directions will begin upon completion of these preparations,” it added.- AFP
