EU amb. suggests EU observers, highlights ways Gaza aid can get through,

CAIRO - 16 May 2024: There are ways for aid into Gaza other than Rafah crossing from Cyprus, Jordan, and several Israeli crossings, including the Kerem Shalom, Christian Berger, head of the European Union delegation in Cairo on Wednesday.

The European Union had observers deployed at Kerem Shalom crossing in 2005, as well as some 100 police and customs officers, and it is possible to make the deployment once more if all parties agreed, according to Berger. 

Egypt has always supported the Palestinian cause, and plays a great role in bringing humanitarian aid through the Rafah crossing is great, he said.

Egypt has helped the European Union and the international community during the past few weeks in receiving and sending humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip. 

For over a week, Rafah crossing has been closed by Israel since occupying it. Despite being equipped for people, rather than goods, Rafah crossing has been the main point supplying the strip with aid. 

Berger added that Egypt has played a positive role in negotiating ceasefires and in allowing people to leave Gaza.

In negotiations, even the High Representative for Foreign Affairs of the European Union, Josep Borrell, praised the Egyptian role several times, Berger said.

Berger added that the European Union emphasizes a ceasefire and increasing the entry of aid not only through the Rafah crossing, but also through the seaport.