Senior European official: Rafah crossing opening positive step in peace plan

The European Union’s High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas, described the opening of the Rafah crossing in southern Gaza on Monday as a tangible and positive step in the peace plan.

In a post on “X” platform, Kallas explained that the EU’s civilian mission is on the ground to monitor crossings and support the Palestinian border guards.

She noted that reopening the crossing is a lifeline for the sick and wounded in the Gaza Strip, as it will contribute to reuniting families after a long separation.

Kallas emphasized that practical steps of this kind help advance the ceasefire plan and must continue, pointing out that Gaza remains in dire need of aid.

Despite the European official’s statement about the opening of the crossing, the Palestinian Ministry of Health in Gaza confirmed earlier today that the Rafah crossing has not yet been opened.

The Ministry of Health stated in a press release, seen by the Yemeni News Agency (SABA): “Regarding patient travel today, travel will proceed through the Kerem Abu Salem crossing using the previous procedures.”

It added: “Regarding patient travel through the Rafah crossing, there is no new information at this time.”

A European Union delegation arrived at the crossing yesterday to participate in coordinating travel, while videos showed Israeli soldiers deployed around it, establishing checkpoints and military posts.

Thousands of Palestinian patients and wounded individuals are waiting for the Rafah crossing to open for medical treatment abroad. However, the Israeli authorities are preventing more than 50 of them from leaving daily, meaning that those currently in the Gaza Strip will need 440 days to travel.