Rafah Crossing: A Fragile Lifeline for Gaza, Monitored by the EU
For nearly two decades, the European Union Border Assistance Mission (EUBAM) at the Rafah Crossing – Gaza’s sole direct link to the outside world – operated with limited capacity. Following the 2007 Hamas takeover, the mission was drastically reduced. Today, EUBAM is back, attempting to facilitate the fragile cooperation needed for Gaza’s recovery, but faces significant hurdles.
A Rocky Reopening
The Rafah crossing reopened for two-way pedestrian traffic on February 2, 2026, for the first time since the October 7, 2023, attacks. However, the process has been fraught with challenges. While an agreement between Egypt and Israel allows 50 Gazans to enter and exit daily, with accompanying family members for medical patients, the actual numbers have fallen short. Between February 2 and February 9, 316 Gazans left and 312 entered, averaging around 35 in each direction daily.
The outgoing traffic comprised 125 medical patients and 191 family members. Despite the reopening, travelers have reported issues, including long wait times and intrusive inspections. In some instances, passengers were forced to spend the night at the crossing due to logistical delays.
Technical Snags and Logistical Challenges
According to EUBAM Rafah head Nataliya Apostolova, “The technical details, at the end of the day, can delay the whole process.” Several factors contribute to these delays. The terminal itself is currently housed in shipping containers, a temporary setup after the original buildings were destroyed in 2024. The crossing operates for only six hours daily (9 a.m. To 3 p.m.) to allow EU staff to leave Gaza before dark.
Large suitcases, often containing belongings accumulated over years, frequently don’t fit through the scanning machines, requiring manual inspection. The requirement for an equal number of entries and exits each day also creates bottlenecks. If 12 injured Gazans are approved for medical evacuation to Egypt, 12 must simultaneously enter Gaza, leading to delays and overnight stays on the Egyptian side.
Security Concerns and Coordination
Israel maintains remote control over the crossing gates and monitors who passes through, while having no physical presence on site. Those entering Gaza from Egypt pass into an area currently controlled by Israeli troops, with further interaction often occurring through Israel-aligned armed militias.
EUBAM’s role is to monitor the implementation of the crossing’s operation by the Palestinian Authority border and customs agents. Coordination with the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) has been described as “absolutely perfect” by Apostolova. The World Health Organization (WHO) plays a crucial role in identifying and transporting patients, coordinating with both the IDF’s Coordination and Liaison Administration (CLA) and EUBAM.
Allegations of Mistreatment and Restrictions
Reports have surfaced alleging harsh treatment by Israeli forces and armed militias during passage. Restrictions on items allowed into Gaza are also in place, with electronics, cigarettes, and liquids banned, limited to a single cellphone per person. Cash allowances are also restricted to NIS 2,000 ($647) for those entering Gaza and NIS 1,000 ($323) for those leaving.
Controversially, Palestinian Authority logos are being used on stamps at the border, despite Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s stance against PA involvement in Gaza’s administration.
The Future of EUBAM and Rafah
EUBAM is holding regular technical meetings with Egyptian and Israeli officials to address the challenges. The mission has not yet engaged with the new National Committee for the Administration of Gaza. Despite the difficulties, Apostolova remains optimistic, stating, “All sides are trying… We have very good cooperation with Israel and with the Egyptian side as well. We try to solve it, but it does not happen in a week.”
Frequently Asked Questions
- What is EUBAM’s role at the Rafah Crossing? EUBAM monitors the implementation of the crossing’s operation by Palestinian Authority border agents, providing expertise to improve efficiency and respect for travelers’ dignity.
- How many people are currently allowed to cross Rafah daily? The agreement between Egypt and Israel allows 50 Gazans to enter and exit Gaza each day.
- What are some of the challenges facing the Rafah Crossing? Challenges include technical delays, logistical issues with luggage, security concerns, and restrictions on items allowed into Gaza.
- Who controls the Rafah Crossing? Israel maintains remote control over the gates and monitors passage, while Palestinian Authority agents manage border operations on the ground.
Pro Tip: Travelers should pack light and be prepared for thorough inspections to expedite the crossing process.
Stay informed about the latest developments at the Rafah Crossing and the ongoing situation in Gaza. Explore more articles on The Times of Israel.
