NEW YORK: The United Nations welcomed the reopening of the Rafah crossing, stressing the need to allow civilians to leave and return to the Gaza Strip voluntarily and safely, in accordance with international law.

Spokesperson for the United Nations Secretary-General Stephane Dujarric emphasized in a press conference the necessity of allowing sufficient humanitarian aid into Gaza with minimal obstacles through Rafah and all other crossings.

For his part, the UN Resident Coordinator in the Occupied Palestinian Territory, Ramiz Alekperov, said that the reopening of the Rafah crossing in both directions is an important step in line with the agreements reached within the framework of the first phase of the ceasefire.

Alekperov stressed the need for further action to allow for increased and expanded humanitarian access to the Gaza Strip in a safe and sustainable manner.

The border crossing, located in the southern Gaza Strip, was reopened on Monday in both directions for Palestinian movement, after being completely closed by the Israeli occupation since May 7, 2014, following the invasion and occupation of Rafah. Israeli forces seized control of the land crossing and destroyed all its buildings and facilities.