Netanyahu names new Negev community after hostage Ran Gvili

Israeli officials stressed that the next phase of President Trump’s ceasefire framework cannot move forward until Gvili is returned.

By World Israel News Staff

Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu announced Sunday that Israel will establish five new communities along the Beersheba–Dimona corridor, including one to be named “Rananim” in memory of Master Sgt. Ran Gvili, whom he called a “hero of Israel.”

Gvili’s case remains central to Gaza negotiations, with Israeli officials stressing the next phase of President Donald Trump’s ceasefire framework cannot move forward until he is returned. Trump has also weighed in, saying the United States believes it has a clearer picture of where Gvili is being held.

Israeli officials say mediators were told the next stage cannot advance without Gvili, and assessments indicate Palestinian Islamic Jihad members may know the location of his remains.

Hamas has disputed that, with spokesman Hazem Qassem telling Al Jazeera the group has already provided all the information it has, while accusing Israel of delaying searches in areas “beyond the Yellow Line.”

The dispute has also fueled tensions over the Rafah border crossing. Palestinian official Ali Shaath claimed last week it would reopen soon, but Israeli officials rejected the claim, saying no directive has been issued and that Rafah will not reopen until Gvili is returned.

A political source said a “special effort is underway” to recover Gvili’s body, with the Cabinet expected to discuss both the hostage file and the Rafah crossing early this week.