Israel Conducts Operation to Locate Last Hostage While Reopening Rafah Crossing
Israel is engaged in a focused mission to locate the body of the last remaining hostage in Gaza, Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, as the nation prepares for a limited reopening of the Rafah crossing. This move comes amidst ongoing tensions following a ceasefire agreement in October.
Why It Matters
This operation underscores Israel’s commitment to recovering its citizens while addressing humanitarian needs in Gaza. The Rafah crossing serves as a critical passage for the two million residents of the territory, and its limited reopening might provide much-needed relief amid ongoing restrictions on the movement of people and goods.
Key Developments
- Israel is conducting a targeted operation in northern Gaza aimed at locating the remains of Ran Gvili.
- A military official mentioned several intelligence leads regarding the potential whereabouts of Gvili’s body.
- Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu stated that the operation seeks to utilize all available intelligence to recover the fallen soldier.
- As part of a plan proposed by former President Trump, Israel has agreed to temporarily open the Rafah crossing for pedestrian traffic, contingent upon thorough inspections.
- The Rafah crossing, crucial for Gazans, has remained closed since the ceasefire conditionally linking its use to the return of hostages.
Full Report
Israeli Operation in Gaza
The Israeli military is actively conducting searches aimed at exhausting intelligence related to the location of Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, whose remains are believed to still be in Gaza. As detailed by military officials, northern Gaza has become the primary focus of their efforts.
Reopening of Rafah Crossing
In a strategic move, Israel has agreed to a limited reopening of the Rafah crossing, which connects Gaza to Egypt. This reopening is applicable only for pedestrian traffic and is subject to stringent Israeli oversight. The crossing has significant implications for Gaza’s population, acting as the main corridor for the movement of nearly all of its residents.
Humanitarian Restrictions
Since the ceasefire agreement last October, the Rafah crossing has been closed in both directions, with Israel insisting that Hamas must adhere to its obligations regarding the return of hostages. Consequently, humanitarian aid has faced severe restrictions, limiting the flow of essential supplies into Gaza.
Access Limitations
Last week, reports indicated that Israeli officials are considering limiting the number of Palestinians entering Gaza through the Rafah crossing. This approach aims to ensure that a greater number of people can exit the territory compared to those permitted to enter, further complicating the humanitarian landscape.
Context & Previous Events
The Rafah crossing has been under Israeli military control since 2024 and was previously opened briefly in early 2025 to facilitate the evacuation of sick and wounded Palestinians for medical care, as part of an earlier ceasefire deal. Since then, access has largely been restricted, particularly after the agreement linked humanitarian access to the return of hostages.
