UN humanitarian chief urges Israel to open more crossings into Gaza

The UN humanitarian chief has urged Israel to open more crossings into Gaza as reports indicate that Palestinians are stockpiling food amid concerns that the ceasefire may collapse. The humanitarian situation in Gaza remains precarious, with families facing separation and uncertainty due to the ongoing conflict. The International Court of Justice (ICJ) has ruled that Israel is obligated to allow humanitarian aid from the United Nations into Gaza, emphasizing Israel's legal responsibilities during the conflict. In the context of ongoing negotiations, Hamas is pressing Israel to release prominent Palestinian prisoners as part of a deal related to the hostages. The Israeli military confirmed that a coffin containing the remains of a deceased hostage is being transported to Israeli troops in Gaza. This follows the retrieval of another body by the Red Cross, marking the return of the 16th body as part of the ceasefire agreement. The situation remains tense, with uncertainty surrounding whether disagreements over the list of Palestinian prisoners will affect the release of hostages within the agreed 72-hour timeframe. Additionally, the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt will remain closed "until further notice," according to a statement from Israel's Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's office. The reopening of this crucial gateway is contingent upon Hamas returning the remains of all 28 dead hostages. This announcement follows previous indications that the crossing might reopen, highlighting the shifting dynamics of the situation. The Israeli foreign ministry also announced the deportation of four Italian activists from the Gaza flotilla, further complicating the humanitarian and political landscape. The ongoing military and humanitarian concerns underscore the fragility of the ceasefire and the urgent need for humanitarian access to civilians in Gaza.