Spain Proposes Deploying Civil Guard for European Mission in Rafah

Spain has announced its intention to send Civil Guard personnel to the Rafah border crossing as the European Union prepares to deploy a long-awaited mission in the region. The Spanish Foreign Minister has expressed the urgency of this deployment, emphasizing that the specific details will be contingent upon the finalization of the mission, which is to be coordinated with the Palestinian Authority.

During a recent meeting in Brussels with European counterparts, the minister highlighted the need for a European mission aimed at facilitating the movement of individuals at the Rafah crossing. He underscored the necessity for a prompt deployment, indicating that it falls to the European diplomatic chief to determine the required number of agents and establish timelines.

In May, the EU approved the revitalization of its border security mission in Rafah. Previously, EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell had indicated that while there was a willingness to proceed, it was crucial for the Palestinian Authority to assume responsibility for Gaza. The recent ceasefire has created a more favorable environment for these discussions.

The Spanish minister also expressed optimism regarding the situation in Gaza, calling it a potential 'window of hope' and advocating for efforts to ensure a lasting ceasefire and the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinian population. He announced that Spain would contribute EUR50 million to support these initiatives.

Additionally, the Foreign Minister firmly rejected comments made by former U.S. President Donald Trump regarding the relocation of 1.5 million Gazans, asserting that the people of Gaza must remain in their homeland as it forms part of the future Palestinian state. He reiterated the importance of unifying Gaza and the West Bank under the Palestinian Authority.

In a related development, the Spanish minister advocated for the gradual lifting of sanctions on Syria, a move that is expected to be discussed among EU member states. He argued that such a step would signal a strong political commitment to fostering an inclusive political future for Syria, while also calling for the immediate removal of sanctions that hinder humanitarian aid and economic recovery.

The EU aims to ease restrictions that have been in place following the fall of Bashar al-Assad's regime, while ensuring that any suspension of sanctions includes conditions to safeguard against the resurgence of authoritarian practices.

Further complicating the EU's diplomatic landscape, Hungary's prime minister has threatened to veto the extension of sanctions against Russia in light of the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The Hungarian government has argued that these sanctions have resulted in significant economic losses, complicating energy supplies in the region. The Spanish minister, alongside other EU leaders, has maintained that renewing sanctions is essential for upholding democratic values and ensuring European security.