BADRASHIN, Egypt – Raed Belal, a Palestinian man, has been in Egypt for two years, separated from his wife and children in Gaza. He has watched as they have faced hardship during the conflict between Israel and Hamas. Now, with Israel planning to reopen the Rafah crossing between Egypt and Gaza, Belal hopes to go home.
Belal, 51, is ready to return as soon as he can. He left Gaza for medical treatment before the recent war began. He is among many Palestinians eager to go back, even though much of Gaza has been damaged.
The Rafah border crossing is expected to open soon. This follows Israel’s retrieval of the remains of a hostage in Gaza.
Gaza has been closed to Palestinians since Israel started its response to the October 7, 2023, attack by Hamas on Israel. The Rafah crossing was shut down in May 2024 when Israeli forces took control.
Many Palestinians have been stuck outside Gaza, mainly in Egypt. Some worried they would never be allowed to return.
Israel plans to allow only a small number of Palestinians to return each day. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu said that about 50 Palestinians would be allowed into Gaza daily, with Israel checking who enters. Before the war, hundreds of people entered Gaza from Egypt each day.
About 30,000 Palestinians have signed up with the Palestinian Embassy in Egypt to return to Gaza. Hamas has asked Israel to open the Rafah crossing fully.
Palestinians also hope that the reopening of the crossing will allow more medical evacuations from Gaza. Many people need urgent medical care outside of Gaza.
Belal owned a store in Gaza. He left in July 2023 for back treatment. Weeks later, Hamas attacked Israel, and Israel began bombing Gaza, closing the borders.
Belal heard from his sons that they were moving goods from their shop after a warning from the Israeli military. The building, which held the shop and their home, was bombed. Belal’s son was hurt.
His family moved many times during the war. They faced communication problems and were often without contact.
Belal’s brother was killed with his young child when Israel bombed a school where they were staying. Belal also received false news that his son had died.
Belal said it was hard to be away from his family during this time. He worried about their safety and well-being.
Belal’s wife and children are now in a tent in Gaza City, relying on charity for food. Belal has sent money, but their savings are almost gone.
Belal’s wife hopes the crossing will open soon so her husband can return.
Belal’s brother, Jaber, left Gaza before the war to find work. He later joined Belal in Egypt and married an Egyptian woman. He also wants to return to Gaza.
Jaber said they will rebuild their home and Gaza.
Belal is ready to go back. He has bought gifts for his children. He hopes to see them soon.
