Gaza's Rafah Border to Open Amid Humanitarian Efforts

Israel plans to open Gaza's Rafah border crossing with Egypt and increase humanitarian aid following the return of deceased hostages by Hamas. Gazans will be allowed to return or leave through the crossing. Around 600 trucks with essential supplies will enter, pending security approvals.

Israel will permit the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt to open on Wednesday, increasing the flow of humanitarian aid into the region, according to reports from public broadcaster Kan. This development follows Hamas's handover of more bodies belonging to deceased hostages.

If Israeli security approvals are granted, Gazans who have exited the enclave during the conflict will be allowed to return, along with others who wish to leave via the Rafah crossing. An estimated 600 trucks loaded mainly with food, medical supplies, and repair equipment for damaged infrastructure are set to enter the area, as stated by Kan. No immediate comments have been made by either Israeli or Palestinian sides.

Previously, Israel had threatened to keep the Rafah border closed, pointing to Hamas's delay in fulfilling its obligations under the ceasefire agreement, namely the return of hostage bodies. Shortly thereafter, Hamas, through the International Committee of the Red Cross, returned four coffins to Israel. While three of the bodies have been identified as Israeli hostages, the identity of the fourth is under question, Israeli media pointed out.