Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani discussed the need for a ceasefire in Gaza and a resolution to the humanitarian crisis in Lebanon. They emphasized Egypt’s role in Palestinian reconciliation and the importance of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 in ensuring stability in the region amid escalating violence.
On Saturday, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty engaged in a discussion with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, regarding critical developments in Lebanon and Gaza. This conversation focused on the pressing need for a ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the urgent facilitation of humanitarian aid to the enclave which is currently enduring hardship due to conflict. Minister Abdelatty emphasized Egypt’s role in fostering reconciliation among Palestinian factions by hosting both Fatah and Hamas delegations in Cairo to reestablish unity. Prior to his dialogue with his Qatari counterpart, Minister Abdelatty also conferred with France’s Foreign Minister, Jean-Yves Le Drian, addressing challenges in both Lebanon and Gaza. The spokesperson for Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, revealed Abdelatty’s heightened concern regarding the intensified violence in Lebanon, particularly following attacks on UNIFIL positions which resulted in injuries to two UN soldiers. He reiterated the imperative for the Israeli military to guarantee the protection of UN personnel and property. Abdelatty insisted on the necessity of an immediate ceasefire and the reduction of regional hostilities, while affirming Egypt’s commitment to averting further escalation in the area. He underscored Egypt’s steadfast position against any encroachment on Lebanon’s sovereignty and the significance of fortifying Lebanese institutions, especially the Lebanese army. Moreover, he highlighted the importance of adherence to UN Security Council Resolution 1701 in its entirety, which is designed to enable the Lebanese army’s deployment in southern Lebanon and facilitate a consensus-driven presidential election. Furthermore, the ministers acknowledged the dire situation in Lebanon amidst continued Israeli operations. They agreed on the urgent need for a ceasefire, the strengthening of Lebanese institutions, and the enforcement of UN Resolution 1701. This resolution allows for humanitarian assistance to the Lebanese populace, who are grappling with a critical crisis characterized by the displacement of over 1.2 million individuals. Minister Abdelatty articulated profound concern over the humanitarian conditions in Lebanon and stressed the requirement for immediate aid to assist the Lebanese government in addressing this escalating crisis. Concurrently, he called for a ceasefire in Gaza, with unrestricted access to humanitarian resources and a cessation of Israeli actions in the West Bank. Minister Abdelatty appreciated France’s dedication to supporting Palestinian rights and its advocacy for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state grounded in the framework of a two-state solution.
The ongoing conflict in Gaza and the escalating tensions in Lebanon have drawn significant attention from international leaders. Egypt, historically a key player in Middle Eastern diplomacy, is actively involved in mediating peace efforts and facilitating reconciliation among Palestinian factions. Current regional instabilities are exacerbated by Israeli military actions, which have raised concerns about humanitarian crises in both territories. Resolution 1701, established by the UN Security Council, aims to maintain peace and security in Lebanon following the 2006 conflict with Israel. Given the recent events, there is a pressing need for regional actors to collaborate towards de-escalating tensions and providing humanitarian assistance.
The discussions between Egypt’s Foreign Minister and Qatar’s leadership underscore the urgent need for international cooperation to address the crises in Lebanon and Gaza. With a focus on humanitarian aid, the cessation of hostilities, and the empowerment of local institutions, these diplomatic engagements are aimed at fostering stability in a volatile region. The reaffirmation of Egypt’s commitment to Palestinian reconciliation and regional sovereignty highlights the complexities and challenges in achieving lasting peace in the Middle East.
Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com
