In a special event organized by Pal-Think for Strategic Studies, the Head of Mission for EUBAM Rafah, Mr. Gerhard Schlaudraff stated that “it is possible for EUBAM to return to the Rafah Crossing, in full function, once an agreement is approached by all stakeholders”. In the meantime, he also assured that this return will not happen without the approval from Israel and the Palestinian Authority.
Mr. Schlaudraff discussed with some Palestinian stakeholders about the current developments in relation to the closure of the Rafah Crossing which affect Palestinians living in the Gaza Strip. He ensured that bettering the movement and travelling conditions for the Palestinians through Rafah Crossing is among his main goals as Head of EUBAM Rafah mission.
He reiterated that the EU stands ready to reactivate EUBAM Rafah, once political and security conditions allow, in order ensuring the EU third party role at the Rafah crossing point. EUBAM Rafah will continue to ensure the mission's readiness to return to the Rafah Crossing Point at short notice, and liaise with the parties on a regular basis.
This statement was delivered by Mr. Shchlaudraff to a number of distinguished figures from the Gazan society, that included members of Official and Legislative Authorities, representatives from civil society organizations and the private sector, and border control specialists.
