End of isolation

After four years, Egypt permanently reopened its border with the Gaza Strip on Saturday, easing travel restrictions on isolated Palestinians.

Two ambulances carrying patients from the blockaded strip were the first to make the journey over the Rafah crossing into Egypt for treatment.

A total 300 Palestinians left for Egypt, in four buses, but more are expected to cross the border in the coming days after the Hamas government in Gaza lifts its own restrictions.

Egypt and Israel first imposed a blockade in 2006 following the abduction of an Israeli soldier. It was later tightened in 2007 in an effort to weaken the Islamic group Hamas after it gained control of the area.

Former Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak's regime defended its decision to close the only gateway to the Gaza Strip which was not controlled by Israel by asserting it was a necessary move in the fight against terrorism.

But when Mubarak was ousted from power in February, Egypt's military rulers opted to permanently ease the blockade imposed by Israel.

Israel concerned

Although no goods will be allowed to cross the border, the move will be a considerable relief to Palestinians, who will now be able to seek medical aid in Egypt.

But fears have been raised in Israel that it will also be easier for militants to get in and out of Gaza.

Some Palestinians had previously smuggled goods, including weapons, into Gaza using tunnels from Egypt.

The Rafah crossing will be open to people for eight hours a day, with the exception of Fridays and public holidays.

Author: Charlotte Chelsom-Pill (AP, AFP, dpa)

Editor: Kyle James