Tensions escalate in Gaza as Hamas condemns Israel for keeping the Rafah border closed, calling it a blatant violation of the ceasefire. Netanyahu’s office insists the crossing will reopen only after Hamas hands over all deceased hostages.

The Hamas terror group denies violating the ceasefire after an attack in Rafah on IDF troops, claiming that the operatives there are not following orders. The military wing of Hamas issues an statement saying that it has no connection to the incident in Rafah earlier today, in which the IDF said RPGs and sniper fire targeted Israeli troops.

The reopening of the Rafah border crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt, part of US President Donald Trump's plan for the Palestinian territory, remains on hold despite calls from the UN and aid groups.

Vice President JD Vance is expected to visit Israel with a US delegation sometime this week, amid the fragile ceasefire between Israel and Hamas.