Israel announced on Monday that it will allow only pedestrian passage through the Rafah crossing with Egypt as part of a limited reopening, contingent on recovering the remains of the last Israeli captive, Ran Gvili.
The crossing, a crucial entry point for humanitarian aid into Gaza, has remained closed since Israeli forces took control during the conflict. The move comes under a US-backed ceasefire framework but has faced delays, despite pressure from US envoys.
Netanyahu’s office said reopening depends on the return of all living hostages and Hamas locating and returning the deceased. It remains unclear if medical evacuations will be permitted.
Hamas confirmed it has shared all information regarding Gvili’s location, while his family opposes reopening Rafah until his remains are returned.
The war in Gaza has caused widespread destruction and humanitarian crises, with over 71,000 Palestinians reported killed since October 2023, according to UN-verified figures.
