Borrell warns that the Rafah offensive may lead to ‘another significant humanitarian crisis’

The European Commission has announced the reinstatement of funding for the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA), a key agency providing aid to displaced Palestinians, despite previous accusations of staff involvement in the 7 October massacre carried out by Hamas.

The decision comes as Israel launches a military offensive in Rafah, a city in the Gaza Strip, prompting warnings from EU foreign policy chief Josep Borrell of dire consequences for the hundreds of thousands of civilians caught in the crossfire.

Borrell expressed disappointment over the failure to secure a ceasefire deal, with Hamas initially accepting the agreement before Israel rejected it and resumed its attack on Rafah. The Israeli military has taken operational control of the Rafah border crossing with Egypt, further escalating the situation.

With civilians trapped in Rafah and facing food and medical shortages, Borrell emphasized the urgent need for humanitarian aid and support. He highlighted the importance of UNRWA in providing assistance to millions of people and called for the full resumption of European financial support to the agency.

Despite concerns about the escalating conflict and potential humanitarian crisis, Borrell did not discuss the possibility of imposing sanctions but stressed the need to mitigate the consequences of the ongoing violence. The European Commission will continue to monitor the situation and explore ways to address the growing humanitarian needs in the region.