New questions over access to critical Gaza crossing

Geopolitical Situation - The Rafa border crossing between Egypt and Gaza Strip has been largely closed since May 2024, leading to a dispute over its reopening [1] - A ceasefire deal stipulated Israel should reopen the Rafa border, but this did not occur due to Hamas allegedly failing to return all dead hostages' bodies [2] - Conflicting reports emerged regarding the reopening, with the Palestinian embassy in Egypt announcing a reopening on Monday, contradicted by Benjamin Netanyahu's office stating it would remain closed until further notice [3] - Hamas condemns the continued closure as a flagrant violation of the ceasefire terms [4] Humanitarian Concerns - The reopening of the Gaza border is critical for the entry of more aid and the evacuation of the sick and wounded [4] - There are still 18 dead hostages left in Gaza, with more being handed over and awaiting identification [3]