The European Union has announced the restart of its civilian mission to monitor the Rafah border crossing between Gaza and Egypt.
The mission, which resumed operations on Friday, aims to support Palestinian border personnel and facilitate the transfer of individuals out of Gaza, including those requiring medical care.
EU foreign policy chief Kaja Kallas confirmed the move on X (formerly Twitter), stating that the mission will help ensure the safe transit of goods and people. The decision follows approval by EU foreign ministers earlier this week, with initial plans targeting an early February start.
It will support Palestinian border personnel and allow the transfer of individuals out of Gaza, including those who need medical care.
Background and mission details
The EU first established a civilian mission to monitor the Rafah crossing in 2005 under an agreement involving Israel, Egypt, and the Palestinian Authority. However, the mission was suspended in 2007 following Hamas’ takeover of the Gaza Strip.
The reactivated mission, which operates without arms, will focus on policing the border and enabling the safe movement of people and goods. The initiative has garnered support from Egypt, Israel, and the Palestinian Authority, which governs parts of the occupied West Bank.
In its standby mode, the mission typically employs 10 international and eight local staff. With the new mandate, the workforce is expected to expand, with contributions from France, Italy, and Spain. Germany is also in consultations to send personnel.
While the EU has played a limited role in ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, regional actors like Qatar, Egypt, and the United States have taken the lead. The reopening of the Rafah mission underscores the EU’s commitment to supporting stability and humanitarian efforts in the region, even as broader diplomatic efforts continue.
The reactivation of the mission marks a significant step in addressing the urgent needs of Gaza’s population and fostering cooperation among key stakeholders in the region.
