Israel army enters Rafah and takes control of border Israel ramping up pressure on Hamas ahead of crucial talks in Egypt today. Israeli military says it has taken control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing at the moment - it is now closed. Late yesterday afternoon, Hamas agreed to the latest ceasefire proposal. Despite the hopes then of a deal, Israel is still planning to push ahead with an assault on Rafah. More information with France 24 journalist Shirli Sitbon.