Only 12 returnees were allowed to cross the newly reopened border with Egypt on the first day, far fewer than the expected number.
Israel and Egypt had disagreed for months about how to resume operations at the Rafah border crossing, which has been largely closed since May 2024.
The only crossing that connects Gaza with Egypt has reopened. The move will allow residents to leave for medical care or return to homes and families in the territory.
A local health official said at least 26 people had been killed in the attacks, which the Israeli military said had targeted Hamas commanders.
The Rafah crossing will open at the end of Israel’s search for the remains of the last captive in Gaza.
Jared Kushner, President Trump’s son-in-law, offered the proposal at a Davos ceremony to inaugurate the president’s “Board of Peace.”
Officials said Israel helped arm and back Yasser Abu Shabab’s Popular Forces, part of a strategy against Hamas, before a local clan killed him this week.
Hamas returned to Israel the remains of Lt. Hadar Goldin, who was killed in a 2014 war in Gaza.
Hamas returned to Israel the remains of Lt. Hadar Goldin, who was killed in a 2014 war in Gaza.
Israel launched a wave of attacks on Gaza after accusing Palestinian militants of attacking its forces across cease-fire lines. Both sides say they are still committed to the truce.