Aid trucks are stranded on the Egyptian side of Gaza's Rafah Crossing. With Kerem Shalom — controlled by Israel — the only open route, France is urging the EU to revive its border mission, EUBAM, to deliver aid and improve security. Deployment depends on approval from both Egypt and Israel.

As the EU seeks greater influence in Gaza, it is warming further to Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi, despite his controversial human rights record. The two sides have already begun deepening ties through a €7.4 billion cooperation deal signed in March 2024.