8 Arab, Islamic States Protest Israel’s Statement That It Will Open Rafah for Departures Only
Eight Arab and Islamic states sharply rejected Israel’s announcement that the Rafah Crossing would reopen only for Palestinians wishing to leave Gaza, issuing a joint statement on Friday warning that such a move contradicts President Donald Trump’s ceasefire plan and risks forcing Gazans from their homes.
Foreign ministers from Qatar, Egypt, Jordan, the UAE, Indonesia, Pakistan, Turkiye, and Saudi Arabia said they were “gravely concerned” by Israel’s remarks and insisted that the crossing must function in both directions.
The ministers said any arrangement that limits movement to outbound traffic alone breaches commitments made under the US.-brokered framework. They argued that residents must be able to stay in Gaza, move freely, and take part in reconstruction efforts, noting that “the displacement of Palestinians from the Gaza Strip is a red line.”
Their statement praised President Trump for his regional diplomacy and urged full, unhindered implementation of his plan, including a stable ceasefire, expanded humanitarian access, and steps enabling the Palestinian Authority to resume responsibilities inside the territory.
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They added that their governments are prepared to coordinate with Washington and international actors to ensure compliance with UN Security Council Resolution 2803 and to advance a two-state outcome.
Israel’s initial announcement last week set the stage for the dispute. The Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories said the Rafah Crossing would reopen “in accordance with the ceasefire agreement and the directives of the political leadership,” allowing Palestinians to exit Gaza following Israeli security screening and under EU oversight. An Israeli official told the Associated Press that any resident seeking to leave would be permitted to do so if Egypt agreed to receive them, but the crossing would not be available for returns. The official said the EU was still preparing its deployment.
Cairo swiftly denied coordination with Israel, Al-Qahera news reported. Egypt’s State Information Service said any arrangement must follow President Trump’s plan, which requires two-way movement.
Israel has kept Rafah closed since seizing the Gaza-side terminal in May 2024, reopening it only briefly during a short pause in fighting in early 2025. Humanitarian groups say thousands of patients still require evacuation for medical treatment, though some have been able to travel through Israel.
