Egypt FM warns against expanding Gaza offensive

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aty has Abdel-Aty warned of the dangers of expanding military operations in Gaza and settlement activity in the West Bank, which he said undermines the establishment of a Palestinian state. He reiterated Egypt’s rejection of any plans to displace Palestinians.

During his meeting with US Senators Chris Van Hollen and Jeff Merkley, members of the Senate Appropriations and Foreign Relations Committees, he also outlined elements of the Arab plan for early recovery and reconstruction, and Egypt’s intention to host a conference on this once a ceasefire is reached. He stressed the need for regional and international efforts to end what he described as Israel’s blatant crimes in Gaza and the West Bank.

Abdel-Aty reviewed the Egyptian-Qatari proposal aimed at a ceasefire, the delivery of humanitarian aid, and the release of hostages and prisoners. He urged the international community to press Israel to heed calls to end the aggression.
The senators shared impressions from their visits to Arish and Rafah, where they inspected Egypt’s humanitarian efforts, including the main logistics centre of the Egyptian Red Crescent and the Rafah crossing. They also saw Egypt’s medical care for injured Palestinians. Both senators praised Egypt’s efforts to secure a ceasefire and provide aid to Gaza.
The talks also addressed developments in Sudan. Abdel-Aty reaffirmed Egypt’s support for Sudanese state institutions, its sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity. He expressed Egypt’s readiness to engage with initiatives seeking an immediate ceasefire and relief for the Sudanese people.
Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English
Subediting: M. S. Salama