On January 31, 2025, Egypt witnessed large-scale protests near the Rafah border crossing in response to a controversial plan proposed by U.S. President Donald Trump, which suggests relocating Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan. Hundreds of demonstrators waved Egyptian and Palestinian flags, chanting slogans opposing the displacement of the Palestinian people.
The protests were organized by various Egyptian political parties, emphasizing solidarity with Palestinians and rejecting any attempts to undermine their rights. The demonstrations took place in a heavily secured military area, accessible only with official escort.
In conjunction with the protests, the European Union announced the commencement of its mission to support the reopening of the Rafah crossing. EU Foreign Affairs Coordinator, Kaia Kallas, stated that the mission would assist Palestinian border personnel and facilitate the movement of individuals, including those requiring medical care.
The Italian government confirmed that the mission began at the request of Israel and the Palestinian Authority, with full support from Egypt. The primary goal is to coordinate the daily transit of up to 300 injured and sick individuals.
The EU mission was initially established in 2005 to aid Palestinians in managing the border crossing but was suspended in 2007 when Hamas took control of Gaza. Hamas announced that the first group of patients would leave Gaza for treatment in Egypt on February 1, following a new prisoner exchange agreement with Israel.
According to a Hamas leader, Israel has agreed to open the Rafah crossing after the completion of the fourth phase of the prisoner exchange. The Gaza Health Ministry is preparing a list of 100 patients and their accompanying individuals for travel. Additionally, 150 other individuals with urgent humanitarian cases will also be permitted to cross.
This new prisoner exchange is part of a ceasefire agreement that has been in effect since January 19, 2025, which has seen Palestinian factions release hostages in exchange for the release of hundreds of Palestinian prisoners by Israel.