Egyptian & Iranian FMs Discuss Gaza Crisis in Phone Call

On Thursday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry received a phone call from his Iranian counterpart, Dr. Hossein Amir Abdollahian, discussing the escalating situation in the Gaza Strip amid ongoing Israeli assaults.

Ambassador Ahmed Abu Zeid, the official spokesperson and Director of Public Diplomacy at the Egyptian Foreign Ministry, provided insights into the discussions that centered around the dire humanitarian conditions facing the Palestinian people in Gaza and the urgent need for a multifaceted approach to resolving the crisis.

The ministers delved into the ramifications of the crisis in Gaza, highlighting the catastrophic humanitarian situation caused by the continuous Israeli attacks. They emphasized the necessity of working on parallel fronts to achieve a complete ceasefire and mobilize international efforts to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. Furthermore, they addressed the need to tackle the root causes of the crisis, which stem from the prolonged unresolved Palestinian issue and the absence of an independent Palestinian state over decades.

Shoukry briefed Abdollahian on Egypt's endeavors to mediate a ceasefire to spare Palestinian bloodshed and facilitate sustainable aid delivery to meet Gaza's needs. In this context, Shoukry stressed the importance of implementing United Nations Security Council Resolution 2720, which calls for establishing a UN-sponsored mechanism to expedite and monitor the humanitarian aid process to Gaza.

The conversation also touched upon Egypt's profound concern over the potential expansion of the conflict in the region, casting a shadow over the sovereignty and stability of several Arab states. Such an escalation poses severe repercussions for regional and international peace and security, with the ministers agreeing that broadening the scope of the conflict serves no party's interest and hampers efforts to resolve the crisis.

Moreover, Shoukry expressed Egypt's alarm and condemnation of the growing military tensions in the southern Red Sea region, which adversely affects many countries, including Egypt, by threatening international maritime navigation through this crucial and strategic waterway.

The ministers concluded their call with a firm rejection of any plans or actions aimed at displacing Palestinians from their lands. They concurred on intensifying efforts to achieve a comprehensive ceasefire that would protect the Palestinian people, allow aid delivery, and ensure a safe and stable life for Palestinians on their territory.