The Rafah crossing between Gaza and Egypt remains a focal point of tension. An Israeli security source stated that transit will not be possible today due to logistical reasons, and reopening may be postponed until tomorrow. However, according to the Israeli public broadcaster Kan, Israel will authorize the passage of 600 humanitarian aid trucks to the Gaza Strip, coming from the United Nations, international organizations, and donors.
Meanwhile, Hamas has returned four bodies to Israel: three belong to Israeli hostages abducted during the October 7, 2023 attack, while the fourth is not Israeli. Another four bodies are set to be delivered today and an additional four on Wednesday, bringing the total number of returned bodies to 12 out of 28. Recovery is complicated by rubble, areas under Israeli control, and the deaths of some Hamas commanders who had buried the victims.
In response, Israel has lifted sanctions planned for today, which included closing the crossing and limiting humanitarian aid. The EUBAM mission in Rafah remains on standby, while the European Union urges all parties to fully implement the agreement, promoting a lasting ceasefire, the release of hostages, and the continued distribution of humanitarian aid.
