People of Gaza seeking to return home have reportedly faced intimidation and abuse by Israeli-backed violent gangs operating near the Rafah crossing, as only a fraction of travelers were allowed through, highlighting the ongoing restrictions and humanitarian challenges in the besieged strip.

Witnesses said that out of 50 Palestinians scheduled to enter Gaza from Egypt, only 12 were allowed through on Monday, while 38 were blocked.

Armed gangs linked to the late smuggler Yasser Abu Shabab escorted travelers to Israeli checkpoints and participated in interrogations, they added.

Al-Araby TV reported that those entering Gaza were stopped by masked militants at a checkpoint roughly 500 meters from the crossing and subjected to multiple rounds of questioning.

An Israeli official confirmed to Haaretz that “militia members escort Palestinians entering from the Rafah crossing to the Israeli security checkpoint.”

The Abu Shabab-linked gang, which has previously looted aid trucks and opened fire on Palestinian civilians while coordinating with Israeli forces, has become a key actor in controlling movement at the crossing.