On Monday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry held a significant phone discussion with U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken today, centered on the intensifying humanitarian and security crisis in Gaza, with a specific focus on the situation in Rafah.
The dialogue emphasized the urgent issues arising from ongoing Israeli military operations in the area.
Ahmed Abu Zeid, the spokesperson for Egypt’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, reported that the conversation was comprehensive, covering the severe humanitarian impact caused by the Israeli control over the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing. This blockade has resulted in a complete halt to the entry of humanitarian aid, affecting over 1.4 million Palestinians enduring the harsh realities of the conflict.
Minister Shoukry highlighted the dire humanitarian outcomes and the profound security risks stemming from the continued military actions in Gaza, underscoring the immediate need for reopening the land crossings between Israel and Gaza. This step is crucial to resume the flow of adequate humanitarian aid necessary to address the pressing needs of the residents of Gaza. The ministers also expressed a strong stance against any forced displacement of Palestinians.
Moreover, the ministers discussed the broader regional security risks prompted by the ongoing conflict, reiterating the importance of swiftly resuming humanitarian aid which has been disrupted in recent days.
The call concluded with an agreement between Minister Shoukry and Secretary Blinken to continue their close consultations and coordination on the Gaza crisis. They committed to supporting strategies aimed at containing the crisis's impact, preventing an escalation of violence, and ensuring that the conflict does not expand to other parts of the region.