Egypt’s Sisi, Lebanon’s Aoun discuss Israeli violations, Gaza war

President Abdel Fattah El Sisi reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Lebanon’s sovereignty and internal stability during his meeting with Lebanese President Joseph Aoun in Cairo on Monday. Sisi condemned Israel’s repeated violations of Lebanese territory and its continued occupation of parts of it.

Sisi also stressed Egypt’s continued intensive efforts and contacts with regional and international actors to push for Israel’s immediate and unconditional withdrawal from all Lebanese territory. He called for full and simultaneous implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 to enable the Lebanese state to assert control over its territory and to reinforce the Lebanese army’s presence south of the Litani River.

The Egyptian president renewed his call on the international community to assume its responsibilities towards Lebanon’s reconstruction. He urged international organisations and donors to participate effectively in the effort to return Lebanon to its natural path of peace, coexistence and harmony.

The two presidents also discussed the situation in Gaza, emphasising the need to end the assault on the strip immediately, resume the ceasefire, and secure the release of all hostages and detainees. They called for urgent humanitarian aid to be allowed into Gaza to meet the basic needs of civilians. Both sides reaffirmed their steadfast support for the Palestinian cause and rejected any attempts to displace Palestinians or liquidate their just cause.

Sisi and Aoun called for mobilising international efforts and resources for the reconstruction of Gaza without displacing its residents, and for empowering the Palestinian Authority to return to the strip. They also stressed the need to expand international recognition of the Palestinian state on the June 4, 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital, calling this the only path to lasting peace and stability in the region.

They further addressed key regional issues, notably the situation in Syria. Both leaders expressed full support for the Syrian people and called for an inclusive and non-exclusionary political process during the transitional period. They also stressed the need to continue counterterrorism efforts and to reject any sectarian or separatist agendas.

The two presidents condemned repeated Israeli attacks on Syrian sovereignty and called for Israel’s withdrawal from occupied Syrian territory and respect for Syria’s unity and territorial integrity.

Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
Subediting: M. S. Salama