Cairo, May 12 (RHC)-- Egypt has opened its border with the Gaza Strip to allow citizens of the besieged Palestinian enclave access to the outside world after nearly three months of closure.

Egyptian officials said Wednesday that the Rafah crossing would remain open for 48 hours, saying the move came in response to a request by the Palestinian Authority which is based in the occupied West Bank but represents Palestinians on major issues.

Reports said, however, that only a few thousands of nearly 30,000 people on a waiting list could cross Rafah after 85 days of closure.  That included mostly patients, students and holders of residency permits in third countries. 

At least 90 Palestinians from Gaza, who were designated as stranded in third countries, reportedly arrived at the Cairo International Airport to use the snap opening of Rafah and pay a visit there.  Officials said another 120 Palestinians were expected to land later.