Israel's Search for Hostage Remains and the Rafah Crossing Reopening

On January 25, 2026, Israel announced a large-scale military operation aimed at locating the remains of the last hostage from the October 7, 2023, Hamas attack, Master Sgt. Ran Gvili. This operation is seen as a critical step before the reopening of the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt, which has been a contentious issue amid ongoing international pressure. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office stated that the Rafah crossing would open once the search for Gvili's remains is completed, aligning with agreements made with the United States.

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The Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are focusing their search efforts in a cemetery in northern Gaza, specifically in the Shuja’iya-Daraj Tuffah area, based on intelligence reports suggesting Gvili's remains may be buried there. The operation involves specialized teams, including rabbis and dental experts, to assist in the identification process. Gvili's family has urged the Israeli government to prioritize the recovery of his remains before proceeding with any further agreements related to the ceasefire.

Israel launches ‘large-scale operation’ to find last Gaza hostage

The reopening of the Rafah crossing has been linked to the broader context of the U.S.-brokered ceasefire and President Donald Trump's 20-point plan for Gaza. U.S. officials, including special envoys Steve Witkoff and Jared Kushner, have been actively involved in discussions with Israeli leadership, emphasizing the need to move forward with the second phase of the ceasefire, which includes the crossing's reopening. Reports indicate that the U.S. administration is pushing for the crossing to open even before Gvili's remains are recovered, a stance that has generated significant debate within the Israeli cabinet.

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Israeli officials have expressed frustration over the U.S. insistence on reopening the crossing, viewing it as a concession that undermines their leverage in negotiations with Hamas. Some far-right ministers within Netanyahu's cabinet have publicly opposed the crossing's reopening without the return of Gvili's body, arguing that it sends the wrong message regarding Israel's commitment to its security.

Israel reopens Rafah crossing on a 'limited basis'

Critics of the Israeli government's approach have raised concerns about the implications of reopening the Rafah crossing without securing Gvili's remains. National Security Minister Itamar Ben Gvir and other right-wing officials have voiced strong opposition, framing the decision as a potential security risk that could empower Hamas. The Gvili family has also appealed to the government, urging that any progress in negotiations should not come at the expense of their son's memory and the commitment to recovering all hostages.

Will Rafah crossing reopen only after Ran Gvili’s return? Statements vs reality

Conversely, some analysts suggest that the reopening of the Rafah crossing is a necessary step for humanitarian reasons, as Gaza faces severe shortages of essential supplies. The crossing's operational framework is expected to include stringent Israeli oversight to prevent the smuggling of weapons, despite the involvement of international and Palestinian Authority personnel in its management.

What we know so far about the reopening of Gaza's Rafah crossing

Netanyahu's office has reiterated its commitment to recovering Gvili's remains, stating, "We will do everything we can to bring his body back." Meanwhile, U.S. officials have indicated that they are working closely with Israel to ensure maximum efforts are made to locate Gvili's remains, emphasizing the importance of cooperation in achieving long-term peace in the region.

Israel says Rafah Crossing to reopen when IDF finishes search for last hostage body

As discussions continue, the Israeli security cabinet is expected to convene to finalize the operational details for the Rafah crossing's reopening. The outcome of these discussions will significantly impact the ongoing ceasefire negotiations and the humanitarian situation in Gaza. The international community, particularly the U.S., remains focused on facilitating a resolution that balances security concerns with the urgent need for humanitarian aid to reach the beleaguered population of Gaza.

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