Israel and Hamas Trade Blame Over Truce Violations | Rafah Border Reopening – October 2025 Update

Israel and Hamas Trade Blame Over Truce Violations as Rafah Border Reopening Nears

Tensions between Israel and Hamas escalated again as both sides traded accusations of violating the fragile truce agreement. Meanwhile, preparations to reopen the Rafah border crossing with Egypt are underway, though no official reopening date has been announced.

Rafah Crossing and Truce Status

Israel’s Coordination of Government Activities in the Territories (COGAT) confirmed that it is working with Egypt to reopen Rafah to allow limited civilian movement in and out of Gaza. However, Israeli officials said humanitarian aid would continue only through the Kerem Shalom crossing, which remains under Israeli control.

Mutual Accusations Over Ceasefire Breach

Israeli authorities accused Hamas of failing to meet the ceasefire terms, alleging that not all bodies agreed upon in the truce were returned. Hamas denied the claim, saying it has handed over all recoverable remains, but ongoing destruction and debris in Gaza have hindered further retrievals.

Hamas also accused Israel of firing during the ceasefire period, calling it a deliberate attempt to undermine the truce. The group said more bodies could be recovered if excavation equipment were permitted into Gaza — a request Israel has so far rejected.

Humanitarian and Political Context

Israeli officials said they remain committed to the ceasefire but added that Hamas’s actions have complicated implementation. Humanitarian agencies report that conditions in Gaza remain dire, with limited aid entry and high civilian needs.

Analysts warn that if disputes over the return of bodies and truce terms persist, the fragile ceasefire could collapse. International organizations, including the United Nations, are urging both sides to exercise restraint and maintain the current pause in fighting.

Conclusion

As efforts continue to reopen the Rafah crossing, the situation highlights deep mistrust between Israel and Hamas. Experts say sustaining peace will require mutual cooperation and transparency rather than political statements alone.