News of the imminent reopening of the Rafah crossing has ignited a firestorm of political and media reactions within Israel. This comes amidst conflicting statements from Palestinian and international entities, and a reserved official Israeli stance on the matter.
Ali Shaath, head of the National Committee for Gaza Administration, announced that the Rafah crossing would reopen next week, hailing the move as an indication that Gaza is no longer closed off to the world and its future. Shaath stated that the reopening is part of a transitional process aimed at improving the daily lives of residents, rebuilding institutions, and restoring order. He emphasized that the Rafah crossing represents a lifeline for Palestinians and a symbol of opportunity and dignity, despite the challenges that lie ahead.
However, the announcement has been met with fierce criticism from within Israel. Avigdor Lieberman, leader of the Yisrael Beiteinu party, attacked the decision to reopen the crossing, deeming it a “capitulation” to the Palestinians. He commented, “The opening of the Rafah crossing and the government of terrorists in suits has already begun to operate in Gaza, and in Israel they pretend to be surprised and shocked. There are no surprises here. We said and warned that the October 7th government continues to surrender to the Palestinians. A bad, weak government… Leave.”
Similarly, Merav Ben-Ari commented that the announcement by the Executive Chairman of the Gaza Council, Nikolai Miladinov, regarding an agreement to open the Rafah crossing contradicts the official Israeli position. “It is worth noting that Miladinov announced the Rafah agreement while Israel says that the cabinet still needs to discuss it. It is also worth noting that Rafah, the gateway of two million Gazans to the world, is being equated with the return of one deceased hostage, and was supposed to open in the first stage.”
Journalist Tal Schneider also expressed skepticism about the nature of the announced agreements, stating, “Pay attention, Miladinov says we have reached agreements on opening Rafah and adds in his post thanks to Israel. Agreements with whom? You will understand for yourselves. Smotrich and Ben-Gvir, do they read English well? This means that your cabinet meeting on Sunday, as usual, is just a pointless formality.”
