• Mou Mou
• 31 Jan, 2025

The European Union has resumed its mission at the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt. This crossing is a key entry and exit point for Palestinians. EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed the deployment on Friday stating that it will support Palestinian border officials and help people, including those needing medical care, to leave Gaza.

Context

The EU Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) was initially launched in 2005 but was suspended in 2007 after Hamas took control of Gaza. The renewed mission aims to assist in enforcing the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.

Kallas announced that EU foreign ministers agreed that the mission could play an important role in stabilising the situation. She posted on X (formerly Twitter) saying, “The EU’s civilian border mission deploys today to the Rafah Crossing at the request of the Palestinians and the Israelis.”

Officials confirmed that Palestinian Authority members and European monitors will now oversee operations at the crossing. It will initially be opened for 50 injured militants and 50 wounded civilians along with their escorts. Additionally 100 more people mainly students will be allowed to cross on humanitarian grounds.

Italy has committed to sending seven paramilitary officers to support the mission, while Germany is also considering deploying personnel.

Read More: US Airstrike in Syria Eliminates Senior Al-Qaeda Linked Militant.

Additional Information

The Rafah crossing is the only route for Gaza's to exit the territory without passing through Israel. Its reopening under EU supervision is seen as a diplomatic step toward maintaining order and ensuring humanitarian access.

The EU’s decision to restart the mission highlights international efforts to stabilise the region. With European monitors in place movement through the Rafah crossing may become more structured and secure.