Israeli Army Pulls Out of Welfare Border Gate for Civilian Use
The Israeli Army Radio has reported on the reopening of the Welfare Border Gate within the Gaza Strip as part of an agreement between Hamas and Israel. The border gate, which had been closed since May 7, 2024, will now allow only Gaza residents to exit through it. This move is part of a larger ceasefire and captive exchange agreement between the two parties.
Under the terms of the agreement, a total of 200 people, including 50 wounded individuals and 3 companions for each day, will be allowed to pass through the border crossing. However, all transitions will be subject to approval from both the Israeli Internal Intelligence Organization, Şin-Bet, and Egypt. The passing of injured Hamas members to Egypt has been permitted, while those involved in the “Aksa Flood” attack on October 7, 2023, will not be allowed to transition through the gate.
It has been noted that a force representing the European Union and non-Hamas Palestinians will be present at the border crossing, despite Israel not officially recognizing them. All officials at the gate will undergo scrutiny from the Israeli Internal Intelligence Service, Şin-Bet.
The mechanism for allowing individuals to pass through the border gate involves mediators forwarding names to Israel, with approvals needed from both Şin-Bet and Egypt. The first group of patients and wounded individuals are slated to pass through the gate tomorrow, February 1, 2025, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza.
The reopening of the Welfare Border Gate follows the terms outlined in the ceasefire agreement and marks a significant step towards easing tensions between Israel and Hamas.
