Netanyahu: Rafah Crossing to Remain Closed Until Remains of Last Hostage Returned

JERUSALEM — Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has stated that the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will not reopen until Hamas returns the remains of St.-Sgt.-Maj. Ran Gvili, the last Israeli hostage held in Gaza, according to a report Tuesday by Israel’s public broadcaster KAN.

The decision aligns with agreements reached with the Trump administration, KAN reported. Netanyahu also intends to set a deadline for Hamas to disarm, a key element of ongoing ceasefire implementations.

Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich echoed the stance Monday, asserting that Israel should not open the crossing “under any circumstances” until Gvili’s remains are returned.

“This is our duty,” Smotrich said. “Hamas can and must return Gvili to Israel.”

Gvili, a police special operations officer killed defending Kibbutz Alumim during the Oct. 7, 2023, Hamas-led attack, is the sole remaining hostage whose body has not been recovered under the ceasefire deal. His remains are believed to be held by Palestinian Islamic Jihad, with Hamas responsible for facilitating the return.

The Rafah crossing, a critical route for aid and movement, has been a point of contention in post-ceasefire negotiations. Earlier reports indicated potential reopening plans, but Netanyahu’s position ties progress directly to the fulfillment of hostage return obligations.

Gvili’s father, Itzik Gvili, has publicly noted assurances from U.S. President Donald Trump that Gaza reconstruction would not advance without the return of his son’s remains.