Palestinians will be able to leave the Gaza Strip through the Kerem Shalom crossing - for the first time since the beginning of the war, Palestinian media reported on Monday.

The crossing will be in coordination with COGAT personnel to prevent the escape of wanted persons and terrorists.

Southern Command sources confirmed the announcements, and said this is an initial move designed to allow Palestinian patients to go abroad for treatment in coordination with Egypt.

Also, holders of special permits with a humanitarian need will be able to leave. About two months ago, Division 162 took over the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing and prevented the entry and exit of goods and citizens through the transition.

People camp as they protest against the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and to demand the immediate release of hostages kidnapped during the October 7 massacre by Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, at the Kerem Shalom crossing, Israel, February 7, 2024. (credit: DYLAN MARTINEZ/REUTERS)
People camp as they protest against the delivery of humanitarian aid to Gaza and to demand the immediate release of hostages kidnapped during the October 7 massacre by Palestinian terrorist group Hamas, at the Kerem Shalom crossing, Israel, February 7, 2024. (credit: DYLAN MARTINEZ/REUTERS)

Philadelphi axis

In the months preceding, with the division’s ground maneuver to Rafah and the takeover of the Philadelphi corridor and the smuggling tunnels, news spread in the Gaza Strip that it was possible to cross into Sinai with the help of smugglers for thousands of dollars per person.
According to estimates by army officials, the smuggling was possible because the IDF did not control the Rafah and Philadelphi areas at the time.
Sources told Walla that there will be no opposition in the security system to the departure of the Palestinians – with the exception of the scope and the appropriate security check.