Egypt, UN Chief Discuss Escalating Middle East Tensions, De-escalation Efforts

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty held a high-level phone call on Friday with António Guterres, as regional tensions continue to mount across the Middle East.

The discussion focused on Egypt’s ongoing diplomatic efforts to contain escalation and address rapidly evolving crises affecting regional stability, maritime security, and global supply chains.

During the call, Guterres expressed strong appreciation for Egypt’s leadership in promoting peace and stability, particularly amid what he described as “highly complex regional crises.” He praised Cairo’s commitment to the principles of the United Nations and its continued engagement in mediation efforts.

The UN chief also highlighted Egypt’s coordination with regional actors, including Turkey and Pakistan, in supporting direct negotiations between the United States and Iran, describing these efforts as critical to reducing tensions across the region.

Both sides exchanged assessments on the worsening military escalation and its broader consequences. Particular concern was raised over disruptions to freedom of navigation, as well as the knock-on effects on global supply chains, food security, and energy markets.

Officials warned that sustained instability could further strain access to essential agricultural inputs, including fertilizers, while rising oil and energy prices continue to impact global economies.

Abdelatty welcomed the appointment of Jean Arnault as the UN Secretary-General’s personal envoy for the Middle East. He expressed Egypt’s readiness to coordinate closely with the new envoy in efforts aimed at de-escalation and conflict resolution.

On the Palestinian issue, the Egyptian minister outlined Cairo’s efforts to implement the second phase of a proposed international plan for Gaza. This includes the potential deployment of a stabilization force, activation of a Gaza administrative committee, and steps toward restoring governance by the Palestinian Authority.

He also emphasized Egypt’s role in training Palestinian police forces and facilitating operations at the Rafah border crossing, a key humanitarian and logistical lifeline.

Abdelatty stressed the urgent need to protect Palestinian civilians in the West Bank, condemning what he described as ongoing attacks by Israeli settlers. He warned that such actions constitute serious violations of international law and undermine prospects for a lasting peace.

Turning to Lebanon, the minister briefed Guterres on his recent visit to Lebanon, underscoring Egypt’s call for an immediate halt to Israeli military actions and reaffirming Cairo’s rejection of any violations of Lebanese sovereignty.

He also reiterated the importance of fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, including strengthening Lebanese state institutions and ensuring exclusive state control over weapons.