Rafah Border Crossing Closure Continues Amid Hostage Remains Negotiations
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will remain closed indefinitely, according to Israel's latest announcement. This decision comes despite the Palestinian embassy in Egypt stating the territory's sole gateway would reopen Monday. The closure is tied to ongoing negotiations over the return of deceased hostages' remains, with Hamas having returned 10 bodies so far but 18 still outstanding. The crossing has been closed since May 2024 when Israel took control of the Gaza side, severely limiting movement for Gaza's 2 million residents.
The Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will remain closed indefinitely, Israel announced Saturday, dashing hopes for the territory's sole gateway to reopen as previously indicated. The decision underscores the complex negotiations surrounding the ceasefire agreement and the return of deceased hostages' remains.
Ceasefire Conditions and Hostage Remains
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that reopening the Rafah crossing depends on Hamas fulfilling its ceasefire obligations regarding the return of all 28 deceased hostages. According to The Canadian Press, Hamas has handed over the remains of 10 hostages so far, with the group asserting it would transfer two additional sets of remains Saturday night. The handover process represents a critical component of the broader ceasefire agreement aimed at ending two years of conflict.
Humanitarian Impact and Movement Restrictions
The continued closure of Rafah crossing significantly impacts Gaza's 2 million residents, who have limited options for medical treatment, travel, or visiting family in Egypt. Before the conflict, Rafah was the only crossing not controlled by Israel. Its closure since May 2024, when Israel assumed control of the Gaza side, has severely restricted movement for Palestinians. A fully operational crossing would facilitate essential travel and family reunification for the tens of thousands of Palestinians with relatives in Egypt.
Recovery Efforts and Casualty Numbers
Meanwhile, recovery efforts continue in Gaza's devastated landscape. Newly recovered bodies have brought the Palestinian death toll above 68,000, according to Gaza's Health Ministry. The ministry, while run by Hamas, maintains detailed casualty records generally considered reliable by UN agencies and independent experts. Thousands of people remain missing, according to Red Cross estimates. Israel returned 15 Palestinian bodies to Gaza on Saturday, bringing the total returned to 135 during the ceasefire process.
International Pressure and Future Implications
The situation remains tense with international pressure mounting on all parties to uphold ceasefire terms. The return of hostage remains and humanitarian aid delivery represent key benchmarks for progress. The ongoing closure of Rafah crossing serves as both a practical barrier and symbolic indicator of the fragile nature of current negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
