2026 must be a year to ‘end suffering, rebuild’ Gaza: Media Office
Gaza’s Government Media Office has outlined its priorities for the “next phase” in the war-battered enclave, calling for an immediate end to Israeli “aggression and genocide” and the withdrawal of Israeli forces.
In a New Year statement, the office urged the permanent opening of all crossing points to allow humanitarian aid, the launch of a “genuine reconstruction process” – including for Gaza’s “exhausted health sector” – the provision of basic needs for displaced people and their safe return home.
It also stressed that aid agencies must be able to operate “without obstacles” and that Israel be held “accountable for its crimes under international law”.
“Despite the magnitude of the tragedy, our Palestinian people remain steadfast in their right to life, freedom and dignity,” said the media office statement.
“They affirm that 2026 must be a year to end the suffering, not perpetuate it; a year to rebuild what the occupation has destroyed, not to entrench the ongoing catastrophe.”
Israel to reopen Rafah crossing after US pressure: Israeli media
Israel is preparing to reopen the Rafah crossing between the Gaza Strip and Egypt in both directions after Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu returns from a visit to the United States, according to Israeli media.
Israel’s Kan 11 news reported on Wednesday that the expected decision comes as a result of pressure from US President Donald Trump.
For Palestinians in Gaza, the Rafah crossing had long been the only connection to the outside world. That was until May 2024, when Israeli forces occupied the Palestinian side of the crossing, destroying its buildings, preventing travel and causing a severe humanitarian crisis, especially for patients.
It marked the first time in 20 years that Israeli forces directly controlled the border crossing, as they deployed soldiers in a military buffer zone all across the Philadelphi Corridor, where they remain today.
It should have been opened months ago, and Israel will find more excuses and restrictions to make it one way only.
