First report: Security establishment preparing to reopen Erez Crossing for goods entry
The move comes as the US administration increases pressure to advance to the next phase in the Gaza Strip, while Israel insists on the disarmament of Hamas.
The Israeli security establishment is preparing to reopen the Erez Crossing solely for the entry of goods. Final approval for the move has not yet been granted, but the target date set for the opening is September 1.
A security source told N12 that the demand to open the crossing came from the Americans several months ago. According to the source, this step is part of the preparations for implementing phase B of US President Donald Trump's 20-point plan.
For now, the move is still awaiting final approval, but the security establishment is preparing for the possibility that the crossing will be reopened as early as next week. The preparation comes against the backdrop of American pressure on Israel to advance to the next phase in the Gaza Strip. In recent weeks, Israeli sources told N12 that difficult talks are being held with the US administration regarding the continuation of the process.
On the other hand, Israel continues to demand the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the disarmament of Hamas as a condition for progress, a position reiterated this week by IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir:
"In Gaza, we are not giving up on the primary goal — the demilitarization of the Gaza Strip and the disarmament of Hamas."
