Israel to open Rafah crossing after search for last captive body concludes

Israel has agreed to a restricted reopening of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, which is Gaza’s most crucial gateway to the outside world, but only under conditions tied to a broader U.S.-brokered peace framework.  

In an announcement Sunday evening, the Prime Minister’s Office said the crossing will be reopened only after Israeli forces complete their operation to recover the remains of the last unaccounted Israeli hostage, Master Sgt. Ran Gvili. 

The move was made as part of President Donald Trump’s comprehensive “20-point plan” to solidify a ceasefire in the Gaza war.

Officials said the reopening will initially permit pedestrian traffic only, with all movement subject to Israeli security inspections. 

Israel is also seeking to restrict entry into Gaza while prioritizing exit options for Gazans, though details on two-way travel have not been fully defined.