Overview

• Israel will keep the Rafah crossing closed on October 15 and curb aid flows, citing Hamas’ failure to return most bodies of deceased hostages, with only 4 of 28 remains handed over so far.
• The ICRC says recovering and identifying remains is technically complex and could take days or weeks, as Egyptian specialist teams join searches and Hamas acknowledges logistical difficulties.
• Since the October 10 ceasefire took effect, Gaza civil defense reports more than 250 bodies recovered, with thousands still under rubble and authorities tallying tens of thousands of deaths and extensive infrastructure ruin.
• EU officials say they will maintain pressure on Israel to meet obligations under the U.S.-backed plan, stressing accountability and adequate funding for Gaza’s reconstruction.
• Analysts and diplomats warn the second phase—covering disarmament and governance—could fracture Israel’s ruling coalition, while Arab states voice cautious optimism alongside concerns over who will fund rebuilding and provide security forces.