EU Reboots Border Monitoring Mission at Rafah Crossing
Background
The European Union has restarted its civilian mission to monitor the border crossing between Gaza and Egypt at Rafah, a key entry and exit point for the Palestinian territory. This decision was announced by the bloc’s foreign policy chief, Kaja Kallas, on Friday.
Initial Influx of Injured Civilians and Militants
The health ministry of Hamas-run Gaza stated that the first Palestinians, including injured civilians and militant fighters, will enter Egypt on Saturday via the Rafah crossing. The crossing has been shut to human traffic since last May. For now, people will only be allowed to travel in one direction, from Gaza to Egypt.
EU’s Role in Supporting Ceasefire Agreement
Kallas announced on Monday that there was broad agreement among member states that the EU Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) could play a "decisive role" in supporting the ceasefire agreement between Israel and the Palestinian group Hamas. The EU has deployed its civilian border mission to the Rafah Crossing at the request of the Palestinians and Israelis.
Mission Objectives and Operations
The EU’s civilian border mission will support Palestinian border personnel and allow the transfer of individuals out of Gaza, including those who need medical care. The crossing will be run by members of the Palestinian Authority and European monitors, with the Palestinian Authority and Hamas officials confirming the development. The initial opening will be for 50 injured militants and 50 wounded civilians, along with the people escorting them. Additionally, 100 people, most likely students, will be allowed through on humanitarian grounds.
Coordination with World Health Organization
Gaza’s health ministry stated that the transportation of patients from two hospitals in the north and south of the enclave will be coordinated with the World Health Organization. The mission will also ensure the safe and smooth passage of these individuals.
History of the EU’s Mission
A civilian EU mission to help monitor the Rafah crossing began work there in 2005 but was suspended in June 2007 after Hamas, a militant Islamist group, took over the Gaza Strip. In standby mode thereafter, the mission maintained 10 international and eight local staff.
International Support
Italy has committed to sending seven paramilitary Carabinieri officers to the Rafah mission, in addition to two Italians already there. Germany’s interior and foreign ministries are also discussing sending a contingent.
Conclusion
The restart of the EU’s border monitoring mission at Rafah Crossing marks a significant step towards ensuring the safe and secure movement of individuals out of Gaza. The mission’s objectives align with the ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas, and its deployment is a testament to the EU’s commitment to supporting peace and stability in the region.
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is the purpose of the EU’s border monitoring mission at Rafah Crossing?
The mission aims to support Palestinian border personnel and allow the transfer of individuals out of Gaza, including those who need medical care. - Who will run the crossing?
The crossing will be run by members of the Palestinian Authority and European monitors. - How many people will be allowed to pass through initially?
The initial opening will be for 50 injured militants and 50 wounded civilians, along with the people escorting them. Additionally, 100 people, most likely students, will be allowed through on humanitarian grounds. - How will the transportation of patients be coordinated?
Gaza’s health ministry will coordinate the transportation of patients from two hospitals in the north and south of the enclave with the World Health Organization.