Rafah Crossing Control Discussed in Secret Meetings

The city of Rafah in Gaza, once a critical crossing point to Egypt, has been devastated by Israeli forces, with new roads and military infrastructure indicating a prolonged Israeli presence. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's recent visit to southern Gaza reinforces Israel's intent to maintain control over the Rafah border despite proposals for a full Israeli withdrawal in return for Hamas' release of hostages. Secret meetings between Israeli, Palestinian Authority, and U.S. officials have discussed reopening the Rafah crossing as part of a ceasefire and hostage deal, with disagreements over who should manage the crossing. Israel prefers non-Hamas personnel without official PA involvement, while Egypt insists on PA personnel. The reopening is seen as crucial for humanitarian aid and a step towards post-war governance that excludes Hamas.