The reopening of the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, part of US President Donald Trump's truce plan for the Palestinian territory, has long been on hold despite calls from the UN and aid groups.

Here are five things to know about this crucial crossing:

- Vital access point -

The Rafah crossing into Egypt is a crucial entry point for humanitarian workers and for lorries transporting aid, food and fuel, which is essential for daily life in a territory deprived of electricity.

For a long time, the crossing was also the main exit point for Palestinians from Gaza who were authorised to leave the narrow strip of land, under Israeli blockade since 2007.

From 2005 to 2007, it was the first Palestinian border terminal controlled by the Palestinian Authority, and later became a symbol of Hamas control over the Gaza Strip after the militant group seized power.

- Under Israeli........

© Al Monitor