By Yolande Knell
BBC News, Cairo

Egypt plans to again temporarily open its Rafah border crossing with the Gaza Strip, allowing some Palestinians to leave the blockaded territory.

It is exactly six months since the start of Israel’s military offensive in Gaza.

Relations with the Palestinian Islamist group Hamas which controls it remain extremely tense.

The crossing – set to open for the next three days – is Gaza’s main route to the outside world.

Orange ambulances, taxis and extra security forces have been making their way to the border in preparation for the latest opening of the Rafah crossing.

Among those who have been given permission to pass through are students and Palestinians needing medical treatment.

Officials attending the latest round of Palestinian unity talks will also make their way to Cairo.

Despite considerable criticism in the Arab world, the Egyptian government has kept Rafah largely shut since the Hamas takeover of Gaza in June 2007.

However it is continuing to play a significant diplomatic role.

This includes acting as a go-between for Israel and Hamas.

In recent days there has been increased speculation about a possible deal to exchange captured Israeli soldier Gilad Shalit for Palestinian prisoners.

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