Egypt’s President Abdel-Fattah El-Sisi and US President Joe Biden engaged in discussions on Thursday regarding collaborative efforts between Egypt, Qatar, and the US to alleviate the situation in Gaza. The leaders focused on the imperative need to establish a ceasefire, facilitate the exchange of prisoners, and ensure the entry of humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip.
During the phone call, President El-Sisi emphasized to President Biden the urgency of achieving an immediate and sustainable ceasefire to provide unimpeded access to aid for Palestinian civilians affected by the humanitarian crisis resulting from Israel’s aggressive actions in the strip.
El-Sisi also warned of the perilous consequences of military escalation and the targeting of civilians, condemning such actions as a clear violation of international law and resolutions of international legitimacy.
The Egyptian Presidential Spokesperson, Ahmed Fahmy, reported that President Biden expressed appreciation for the ongoing joint efforts, acknowledging the priority of a truce to restore stability in the region. Biden commended Egypt’s political initiatives and its leading role in delivering humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah border crossing.
Both leaders stressed the importance of preventing the expansion of the conflict in the region and committed to continued consultation and coordination to restore peace and security. Discussions also encompassed the strengthening of the strategic partnership between Egypt and the US, with a focus on enhancing bilateral relations.
In response to the recent tragic events in Gaza, where Israeli forces targeted civilians gathering for humanitarian aid, Egypt strongly condemned the actions as a shameful crime, in clear violation of international law and humanitarian standards. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs called on major international parties and the United Nations Security Council to bear their humanitarian, moral, and legal responsibility in halting the Israeli war against the Gaza Strip. The ministry urged UNSC member states to provide protection for the Palestinian people and pressure Israel to comply with international law, holding perpetrators accountable for violations.
As conflicting signals surround the potential truce deal for Gaza, caution has been expressed by officials from Israel, Hamas, and Qatar. Despite Biden’s optimism, negotiations continue to secure a captive-for-ceasefire agreement. Israel faces mounting international pressure to agree to a ceasefire as the brutal conflict in Gaza enters its 145th day, resulting in a significant toll on civilian lives and well-being
