Israeli Security Forces Prepare to Reopen Erez Crossing Amid US Pressure Despite Official Denials

Israeli security agencies have begun infrastructure work to reopen the Erez Crossing for goods entry, targeting a September 1 date, according to a report by N12 on August 27, 2026. This preparation comes less than three years after the October 7 incident, despite denials from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and Defense Minister Israel Katz, who claimed they were unaware of the plans and ordered a halt to preparations.

The Deputy Israeli Ambassador to the United Nations publicly announced the reopening date at a UN Security Council meeting, contradicting official Israeli denials. The Southern Command and the Crossings Authority have started groundwork, including approving routes for trucks and security arrangements. The initiative is reportedly driven by pressure from the United States and the Israeli Peace Council.

A senior Israeli official confirmed that the issue was discussed during a security assessment with the IDF Chief of Staff but was not presented to Netanyahu or Katz before the media report. The Chief of Military Intelligence and the Coordinator of Government Activities in the Territories opposed the move. The US demand to reopen the crossing is linked to implementing phase two of the Trump administration’s 20-point plan for Gaza.

Despite ongoing negotiations with the US, Israel maintains its stance that disarmament of Hamas and demilitarization of Gaza remain prerequisites for progress. IDF Chief of Staff Eyal Zamir reiterated this position, emphasizing that Israel does not relinquish its ultimate goal of Hamas’s disarmament in Gaza.