247 - The Israeli government announced this Saturday (18) that the Rafah crossing point, on the border with Egypt, will remain closed indefinitely. The decision was communicated by the office of Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, shortly after the Palestinian embassy in Egypt stated that the reopening was scheduled for next Monday. The information was released by the agency Reuters.

According to the official statement, the eventual resumption of operations at Rafah will depend on Hamas' compliance with the conditions agreed upon in previous negotiations."The opening of the crossing will be considered based on Hamas' fulfillment of its part in the return of the deceased hostages and the implementation of the established framework," Netanyahu's office said.

Humanitarian aid on hold

The Rafah terminal is the main entry point for supplies and humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip, especially during times of blockade and escalation of the conflict. Trucks carrying food, medicine, and fuel wait on the Egyptian side of the border, while the ceasefire between Israel and Hamas remains in effect.

Diplomatic impasse

The Israeli position exposes the fragility of the ongoing negotiations and increases international pressure for measures to ensure the entry of aid to the civilian population in Gaza. For Egypt, which administers the opposite side of the border, the uncertainty increases regional tension and calls into question the scope of the agreements reached through international mediation.