On 11 March 2025, the Head of Mission of EUBAM Rafah, Nataliya Apostolova, accompanied a senior European delegation led by EU Representative to the West Bank and Gaza Strip, Ambassador Alexandre Stutzmann, together with their Excellencies the Consuls General Nicolas Kassianides (France), Javier Gutiérrez (Spain), and Domenico Bellato (Italy), on a visit to the Rafah Crossing Point (RCP).
The delegation observed firsthand the Mission’s ongoing operational support to the Palestinian Authority during Phase I of the ceasefire, which entered into force on 19 January 2025. During the visit, the delegation also engaged with EUBAM Rafah’s Specialised Teams contributed by the French Gendarmerie, Spanish Guardia Civil, and Italian Carabinieri. These teams provide critical expertise in border management and security, underpinning the Mission’s capacity to operate effectively at the crossing.
Following their visit, the Consuls General expressed appreciation for the professionalism and dedication of EUBAM Rafah personnel. They highlighted the Mission’s important role in enabling the reopening of the crossing, particularly facilitating safe and efficient passage for individuals requiring urgent medical treatment outside Gaza. The delegation reaffirmed the European Union’s ongoing commitment to promoting stability, trust, and peaceful cooperation in Gaza and across the region.
EUBAM Rafah was redeployed to the Rafah Crossing Point on 31 January 2025, following requests from the Palestinian Authority and Israel, and with the agreement of Egypt. The redeployment, approved by EU Member States on 27 January under the Mission’s existing mandate, supports the Palestinian Authority in facilitating crossings for medical evacuations, which commenced on 1 February under the Mission’s supervision. As agreed with the parties, the deployment will continue until the end of Phase I of the ceasefire agreement. The EU stands ready to discuss future concrete contributions to support the ceasefire should the parties request.
