Israel announced that it will maintain control of the Rafah border crossing between Egypt and the Gaza Strip during the initial phase of the ceasefire with Hamas. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office released a statement on Wednesday, refuting claims that the Palestinian Authority would have authority over the crossing. Rather, the statement indicated that vetted local Palestinians, divorced from Hamas affiliation, would only be permitted to stamp passports at the crossing, adhering to international agreements that require this stamp for Gazans to travel beyond the Strip.

The ceasefire, which is now in its fourth day, aims to stabilize the war-ravaged Gaza region for at least six weeks and facilitate the exchange of hostages. Specifically, it seeks the release of 33 Hamas-held hostages in exchange for hundreds of Palestinians held by Israel. The crossing will remain under the supervision of European Union monitors while surrounded by Israeli military forces. Israel will also control the movement of people and goods, further emphasizing its oversight.

Following Hamas-led attacks on October 7, 2023, that killed roughly 1,200 individuals in Israel—primarily civilians—and resulted in about 250 abductions, the situation has escalated quickly. Currently, around 100 hostages are still believed to be in Gaza after ongoing rescue efforts. The military operation in response has reportedly led to the deaths of over 47,000 Palestinians, according to local health authorities, with women and children comprising a significant portion of those casualties. Israeli claims assert that over 17,000 militants have been killed, though these figures lack substantiation.

On a somewhat hopeful note, a UN humanitarian coordinator reported that humanitarian aid is flowing into Gaza, with nearly 900 trucks entering on the third day of the ceasefire, significantly exceeding the 600 trucks anticipated. Muhannad Hadi, who returned from Gaza, expressed optimism at seeing Palestinians looking forward to resuming normal lives, stating, “It was one of the happiest days of my 35-year humanitarian career.” During discussions with families at a communal kitchen run by the UN World Food Program, families expressed a desire to return to work and independence rather than relying on aid.

Furthermore, demands from Palestinians for essential supplies such as shelter, clothing, and educational resources have risen sharply. Hadi noted their urgent need for new clothing after enduring prolonged periods with the same garments. The prospect of receiving a shipment of tents in the coming days adds a glimmer of hope to the battered community.

As the situation evolves, the dynamics of local governance and humanitarian assistance will be closely watched, with implications for the ongoing peace process.