Gazans Face Increased Militia Checks at Rafah Crossing

Sun Feb 08 2026 03:24:39 GMT+0200 (Eastern European Standard Time)

Reports reveal that returning Gazans are subjected to searches by a local militia at the Rafah crossing, raising concerns over security protocols and treatment.

As the Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt reopened, Gazans returning through the border have reported extensive checks conducted by a local militia, the Abu Shabab group. Witnesses describe a coordinated effort with Israeli forces at checkpoints, where they faced searches and questioning. The situation reveals underlying tensions and raises questions about the authority of local militias in border operations.

Two Gazan women who passed through the newly reopened Rafah crossing with Egypt on Monday reported being subjected to security checks conducted by the local militia, known as Abu Shabab, inside the Gaza Strip. Lamia Rabia, who traveled with her children, recounted an experience where they were escorted by Israeli forces to a checkpoint, where the militia members, identified as the Popular Forces, searched them and examined their belongings.

There was a woman from the Abu Shabab group who conducted the searches on the women, Rabia told the BBC. After the militia's inspection, they were handed to Israeli authorities for additional questioning. Notably, Rabia mentioned that the Israelis and the Abu Shabab group were present at the same location during these checks, indicating a level of coordination.

In light of these reports, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) were approached for comments on the collaboration with the militia, but they refrained from responding. The Abu Shabab militia operates in direct opposition to Hamas and has previously received support and weaponry from Israeli sources, asserting control over operations in the Rafah area.

Another returnee, who chose to remain anonymous, described mistreatment at the hands of the militia, alleging that militia members assaulted and strip-searched her and other women. Meanwhile, Rabia had a different experience, citing smooth checks without any adverse outcomes.

The return journey was composed of 50 patients expected to cross back into Gaza after receiving medical treatment in Egypt; however, due to security limitations, only 12 individuals were allowed entry, raising alarms over future crossings and the bureaucratic management of the crossing.

European Union officials monitoring the crossing indicated ongoing discussions about their oversight role in escorting arrivals to Israeli checkpoints, citing concerns over the treatment received by individuals during these security checks.