Egypt says opening Rafah border crossing is contingent on PA forces being present -Fatah leader

Egypt has reportedly agreed to open the Rafah border crossing with Gaza only in the presence of Palestinian Authority (PA) forces, Fatah leader Azzam Al-Ahmad announced on Monday, Haaretz reports (paywall). The move, which shows Egypt is trying to maintain a balance in its relations with the PA and rival faction Hamas, conflicts with recent news reports suggesting that Egypt would reopen the border crossing normally come September. Egypt and Hamas’ relations have been warmer lately, with Egypt sending fuel shipments to Gaza and agreeing to supply Hamas with security equipment.