On January 18, 2025, an Egyptian security source confirmed that the Rafah crossing, which is the only link between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, will reopen on January 21. This reopening is part of the ceasefire-for-hostage release agreement between Hamas and Israel, which is set to take effect at 8:30 am local time (0630 GMT) on Sunday.
Approximately 600 aid trucks are expected to enter Gaza through the Rafah crossing on the same day. These trucks will deliver essential supplies, including medical aid, tents, and field hospital modules, as well as 50 trucks loaded with fuel. The aid will undergo inspection by the Israeli side before being allowed entry.
Efforts to rehabilitate the roads leading to the crossing are currently underway, and Egyptian Minister of Health Khaled Abdel-Ghaffar is overseeing preparations to accommodate wounded Palestinians from Gaza. Hospitals in the North Sinai region, including in Arish, Sheik Zuweid, and Rafah, are also fully prepared to receive the injured.
The ceasefire agreement, which was approved by the Israeli government on January 17, involves the release of hostages and prisoners. The first phase of the deal, set to begin on Sunday, will see the release of three Israeli women held by Hamas, along with 95 Palestinian prisoners.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, after a lengthy cabinet meeting, stated that the country would receive full backing from US President-elect Donald Trump to halt arms supplies if necessary, ensuring Israel has the support needed to resume fighting if the ceasefire terms are violated.
While most ministers in Israel’s cabinet approved the deal, far-right members Itamar Ben-Gvir and Bezalel Smotrich opposed it, demanding a commitment to resume military action once the first phase of the agreement concludes. Hamas has reaffirmed its commitment to the agreement, and the situation remains fluid as both sides work toward the implementation of the deal.
Recent Random Post:
