German Border Guards May Assist at Rafah Crossing After Gaza Ceasefire

Wed 29th Jan, 2025

The German government is contemplating the deployment of armed border guards to the Gaza Strip, particularly focusing on the Rafah crossing, which is crucial for humanitarian aid delivery. The Palestinian population in Gaza is facing significant shortages of basic necessities such as food, medicine, and clothing. Following the ceasefire between Hamas and Israel, an increase in humanitarian aid has been observed, but a more substantial improvement in the situation is expected with the potential reopening of the Rafah crossing, which was previously closed by Israel.

Reports from government sources indicate that the coalition of the Social Democratic Party (SPD) and the Greens is considering modifying a cabinet decision from 2005 to allow for the deployment of armed personnel. Currently, the dispatch of German forces is limited to unarmed missions, but a change in this policy is being explored. However, it is emphasized that Germany does not intend to act unilaterally in this initiative.

The plan may see German border protection experts participating as part of a broader European Union (EU) mission aimed at enhancing security at the Rafah crossing. This mission, which has been inactive since Hamas took control of Gaza in 2007, was originally established in 2005 to assist with border checks. The EU had previously refrained from deploying personnel due to its non-cooperation policy with Hamas.

In the initial phase, scheduled to commence in early February, a modest contingent of EU border security experts, along with support personnel, is expected to be deployed to oversee border controls. This arrangement aims to facilitate the movement of several hundred injured Palestinians out of Gaza. According to the Italian Foreign Ministry, the first wave of border guards will likely consist of personnel from Italy, Spain, and France.

Germany's contribution could involve sending federal police or customs officers to Rafah. The EU's involvement is being coordinated with the consent of Egypt and at the request of both Israeli and Palestinian authorities. The timeline for the reopening of the Rafah crossing remains uncertain, but it is a key element in the three-phase agreement reached between Hamas and Israel, which aims to bring an end to the ongoing conflict.

Despite the ceasefire that has been in effect since January 19, tensions in the region remain high. Israeli forces have reported firing warning shots at suspicious individuals, indicating ongoing security concerns. Concurrently, Israeli drone strikes have targeted Hezbollah vehicles in Lebanon, further highlighting the fragile nature of the situation. The EU mission, which may include German personnel, could play a pivotal role in stabilizing the region during this critical period.


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