Israel says it will control Rafah crossing during ceasefire’s first stage 

FILE - Trucks loaded with aid wait to cross into Gaza from the Egyptian side of the Rafah border crossing on Jan. 19, 2025. Displaced Palestinians inspect the ruins of their home, which was destroyed in the Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip, a day after the ceasefire deal between Israel and Hamas came into effect, Jan. 20, 2025.

Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office said Wednesday that Israel will remain in control of the Rafah crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt throughout the first phase of the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.