Spain Confirms Exit of Citizens Through Rafah Crossing from Gaza
Spanish diplomat and UNSCO official, identified by diplomatic sources, managed to depart Gaza this week via the Rafah crossing, the corridor linking Gaza with Egypt. The individual was reported to have left with others under the coordination of international teams working to facilitate humanitarian movement and evacuations. This marks another instance of a civilian exit through Rafah amid ongoing conflict in the region. Attribution: UNSCO
The departure came on the heels of another exit announced the previous day, when a staff member from Doctors Without Borders MSF helped open the crossing to permit the evacuation of foreign nationals and those injured during Israeli airstrikes. The event represented the second sanctioned exit for foreign residents since heightened tensions began in early October. Attribution: MSF
Rafah’s reopening on Wednesday was described as the first real chance for foreign residents to leave Gaza since the hostilities intensified. The situation followed attacks by Hamas on October 7 and the ensuing Israeli response, with the crossing previously opened only in limited humanitarian convoys. Attribution: International Coordination Sources
To date, the crossing has remained limited to special cases facilitating humanitarian aid deliveries. The latest conduct is seen as part of a broader agreement involving Egypt, Israel, and Hamas, which exercises control over the Gaza Strip. Attribution: Regional Mediators
In an official briefing, Acting Defense Minister Margarita Robles outlined the planned departures. Roughly between 140 and 170 Spanish nationals were anticipated to depart Gaza through Rafah, with Israeli and Egyptian authorities already coordinating the exits. The government stated it is prepared to search for any Spaniards who may have evacuated via Cairo today or tomorrow. Attribution: Defense Ministry Briefing
Additionally, the acting defense minister did not rule out the possibility of an air evacuation if required. Armed forces remain ready, though no further operational details were provided. Attribution: Defense Ministry Notes