The Palestinian National Authority (PNA) has turned down an Israeli proposal to open the Rafah crossing, which links Egypt and the Gaza Strip, under civilian management, Sky News Arabia reports, citing an unnamed source.
According to the source, "Israel proposed that the crossing be managed by civilians who are not affiliated with Palestinian security services. The proposal also included a stipulation that Israeli security forces remain near the checkpoint and the Philadelphi Corridor, which is on the Gaza Strip’s border with Egypt. These forces would have the authority to participate in inspections of people and goods."
Additionally, Israel's proposal called for a ban on flying the Palestinian flag at the border and at the Rafah crossing. The PNA rejected the proposal, demanding the withdrawal of Israeli forces from the area.
This development follows the Israeli military’s takeover of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing on May 7, which is a critical conduit for humanitarian aid into Gaza. In response, Cairo announced on May 11 that it would not coordinate further with Israel regarding the crossing and held Israel responsible for the closure and the resulting disruption of aid deliveries. Despite ongoing consultations, efforts to reopen the Rafah crossing have so far been unsuccessful. Currently, humanitarian supplies are being routed through the Kerem Shalom crossing.
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Based on materials from TASS