A Journey Home for 11 Toddlers
On 2 February 2026, the redeployment of the EU Border Assistance Mission for the Rafah Crossing Point (EUBAM Rafah) enabled the reopening of the Gaza–Egypt border for passenger movement. This marks an important step under the “Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict”, endorsed by UN Security Council Resolution 2803. For many in Gaza, particularly the sick and wounded, the crossing serves as a vital humanitarian lifeline and enables long-separated families to reunite.
Over the weekend of 3 May, the mission reached a milestone, facilitating the passage of more than 4,000 passengers through the Rafah Crossing Point (RCP). As of 4 May, a total of 4,210 individuals have crossed under EUBAM Rafah’s monitoring, including 2,063 entries into Gaza and 2,147 exits, among them 760 passengers requiring medical care.
Established in 2005 under the EU’s Common Security and Defence Policy (CSDP), EUBAM Rafah is a non-executive mission providing a neutral, third-party presence at the Rafah Crossing Point. The mission monitors border operations, supports coordination among all parties, and assists the Palestinian border experts in managing the crossing effectively contributing to stability and trust in the region.
Specialised teams deployed through the European Gendarmerie Force (EGF), including personnel from the French Gendarmerie Nationale, the Spanish Guardia Civil, and the Italian Arma dei Carabinieri, are currently supporting operations at the crossing.
A particularly significant humanitarian moment occurred on 30 March, when 11 young children returned from Egypt to Gaza with the support of the EUBAM Rafah team. These children were among approximately 31 premature babies evacuated from Al-Shifa Hospital in Gaza on 19 November 2023, following severe damage to the facility. Many had remained separated from their families in Egypt since that time.
Their return was treated as a priority operation, with all measures taken to ensure a safe and smooth transfer across the border.
Michael Haliti, Head of Operations at EUBAM Rafah, noted: “Our work at the Rafah Crossing Point represents a concrete implementation of the ‘Comprehensive Plan to End the Gaza Conflict’. On a personal level, it is deeply meaningful to witness patients and families successfully crossing the border, especially given the challenges involved in the current context.”
Palestinian border staff oversaw the sensitive operation, providing continuous support to the children throughout their journey.
Iyad Nassir, Head of the Palestinian border team, added “the return of these children reflects what is possible when coordination is carried out responsibly. Our teams work closely with EUBAM Rafah to ensure a safe, orderly, and dignified passage. Personnel remained fully engaged at every step, offering reassurance and care. This cooperation must continue and expand so that more families can be reunited without delay.”
The children were accompanied by four mothers, one father, and two nurses, while additional family members awaited their arrival in Gaza.
This operation highlights the ongoing commitment to facilitating coordinated border movements while supporting critical humanitarian efforts.
