Israel Conditions Rafah Crossing Reopening on Recovery of Deceased Hostage Ran Gvili’s Body
Israel will not reopen the Rafah Crossing between Gaza and Egypt until the body of Master Sgt. Ran Gvili is recovered, the Prime Minister’s Office announced Sunday after a security cabinet meeting, linking the move directly to the return of all hostages, both living and deceased.
The statement said the IDF is carrying out a targeted operation using intelligence gathered in recent days to locate the fallen soldier’s remains. Only after that effort is completed, and in coordination with the US, will Israel allow traffic through Rafah. The government said the opening of the crossing is conditioned on the return of all living captives and on Hamas making a full effort to locate and return those who were killed.
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Israel’s announcement comes as the Trump administration announced it would go forward with the second half of the 20-point plan for a ceasefire and reconstruction of the Gaza Strip, which includes the reopening of Rafah Crossing after more than a year. Despite the announcement, Israel is insisting that the terms of the first phase are fulfilled with the return of Gvili’s remains before moving to phase two.
Gvili, 24, was a policeman who was killed while defending Kibbutz Alumim during the Hamas-led October 7, 2023 attack that triggered the war. He had been awaiting shoulder surgery but joined the fighting when the assault began.
On Sunday evening, the IDF confirmed it is searching a cemetery in the northern Gaza Strip where intelligence indicates his remains may be located. The military added that additional leads are also being examined regarding the possible location of his body.
