Egypt’s Foreign Minister has urged the international community for immediate action to stop Israel’s offensive in Gaza, citing a humanitarian catastrophe. Ongoing discussions with the UN are aimed at delivering aid to Gaza. The Spanish Foreign Minister supports a cease-fire and emphasizes the need for a Palestinian state. The violent outbreak has resulted in substantial casualties in both Gaza and Lebanon, with fears of further escalations.
On Wednesday, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty made a poignant appeal to the international community to implement immediate and decisive actions to halt Israel’s aggressive military operations in Gaza. Speaking at a joint press conference with Spanish Foreign Minister José Manuel Albares in Cairo, Abdelatty characterized the situation in Gaza as a dire humanitarian and medical crisis that requires urgent intervention. He indicated that discussions are ongoing with the United Nations to facilitate the delivery of humanitarian aid to the region, although specific details were not disclosed. Abdelatty also reiterated Egypt’s commitment to diplomatic efforts aimed at de-escalating regional tensions, noting a recent meeting in Cairo between representatives from the Palestinian factions, Fatah and Hamas. The Egyptian Minister announced that Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi is scheduled to visit Cairo, underscoring Egypt’s proactive stance in mitigating conflicts in the area. Meanwhile, Minister Albares stressed the importance of achieving a cease-fire in both Gaza and Lebanon and advocated for the establishment of a Palestinian state as a pathway to lasting peace and stability. He affirmed Spain’s stance by clarifying that no weapons have been supplied to Israel since the commencement of the ongoing attacks on Gaza on October 7, 2023, stating, “The region needs de-escalation, not more weapons.” The ongoing Israeli aggression, which has resulted in the deaths of over 42,400 individuals—predominantly women and children—and has injured more than 99,000, has led to heightened violence that has spilled over into Lebanon. Since September 23, over 1,500 people in Lebanon have lost their lives due to Israeli airstrikes, with more than 4,500 others injured. On October 1, in a controversial escalation, Israel initiated a ground offensive in southern Lebanon, despite international concerns regarding the potential for regional war.
The current situation in Gaza has reached alarming levels due to a prolonged military offensive by Israel, ignited by a terrorist attack by Hamas. This offensive has been marked by substantial civilian casualties and widespread destruction, prompting widespread condemnation and concern from the international community. Egypt, sharing a border with Gaza and historically playing a mediating role in the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, is actively seeking to facilitate peace and ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid. The tensions have exacerbated regional instability, particularly in Lebanon, leading to retaliatory actions and further conflict. Philanthropic and governmental groups face significant challenges in addressing the humanitarian needs of the affected populations.
In summary, Egypt’s call for immediate action to cease Israeli military operations in Gaza highlights the urgent need to address the humanitarian crises ensuing from the conflict. Collaborating with international partners, Egypt continues to advocate for peace and stability in the region while facilitating discussions aimed at restoring order and supporting the Palestinian cause. The situation remains fluid, with significant implications for not only the Gaza Strip but also for Lebanon and the broader Middle Eastern landscape.
Original Source: www.aa.com.tr