Egyptian Foreign and Migration Minister Badr Abdel Aaty, during a press conference with UNRWA Commissioner Philippe Lazzarini in Cairo on Monday, affirmed that “the martyrs of the agency sacrificed their lives to relieve the Palestinians in Gaza,” stating that Egypt will not allow any alternatives to it in the sector.
Abdel Aaty explained, “Israel systematically targeted UNRWA schools and headquarters in violation of international law.”
The Egyptian Foreign Minister also noted that “Israel’s use of starvation as a weapon in the Gaza war is unacceptable.”
The Egyptian Foreign Minister called on donors to reconsider their decision to suspend funding for UNRWA, emphasizing the need for an immediate ceasefire in Gaza and the unconditional entry of aid into the sector.
Abdel Aaty stated, “We will not accept an alternative to the UNRWA agency to help the Palestinian people.”
Since the outbreak of the Gaza war on October 7, Egypt has played a significant role in supporting the Palestinian people. Reports indicate that between 80,000 and 100,000 Gazans have crossed into Egypt since the conflict began, despite Cairo’s initial statements of not accepting Palestinian refugees. Egypt’s response has been noteworthy among Arab states due to its geographical proximity and political weight in the region.
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has been vocal about Egypt’s stance, emphasizing the need for peace and the protection of civilians, and advocating for the delivery of humanitarian aid to the Palestinians. Egypt has been actively involved in diplomatic efforts to address the conflict, balancing its critical stance on Israeli actions with broader regional stability concerns.
