Egypt Urges Immediate Negotiations for Gaza Ceasefire’s Second Phase, Announcing Reconstruction Plan

Egypt has urged for the immediate commencement of negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, anticipating challenges due to Israel’s suspension of aid and ongoing violence. The Egyptian Foreign Minister has denounced the Israeli Prime Minister’s actions and called for increased EU pressure on Israel. Additionally, a reconstruction plan for Gaza has been finalized and is set for discussion at an upcoming Arab summit. Reports indicate continued casualties among Palestinians due to Israeli military actions.

Egypt has called for urgent negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, expressing concerns about the forthcoming challenges. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty warned that the agreement’s future is uncertain due to Israel’s cessation of aid and renewed shelling of the Gaza Strip. During a press conference in Cairo with European Union Commissioner Dubravka Šuica, Abdelatty stressed that immediate discussions are essential to maintain progress.

Abdelatty acknowledged the successful conclusion of the first phase of the ceasefire agreement despite hurdles. He urged a collaborative effort, emphasizing, “We must now move forward with negotiations on the second phase… It will naturally be difficult, but if there is goodwill and political will, it is certainly possible to agree on the second phase.” He highlighted the critical need for all parties to faithfully implement the ceasefire terms.

Furthermore, he called on the European Union to increase pressure on Israel to uphold the ceasefire established since January 19 of last year. Abdelatty condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s halt of aid to Gaza, categorizing such actions as collective punishment and unacceptable.

In addition, the Egyptian Foreign Minister announced that the Gaza reconstruction plan is finalized and will be presented for approval at the upcoming emergency Arab summit in Cairo. He indicated that the plan requires the summit’s endorsement before engaging external parties for assistance.

Concurrently, reports confirm that four Palestinians were killed, and six others injured due to Israeli military actions across the Gaza Strip on the same day. The Gaza Ministry of Health has reported that the total death toll since the ceasefire agreement now stands at 116, with over 490 injuries documented since the ceasefire was enacted.

Palestinian media also noted incidents of fatalities and injuries related to Israeli airstrikes and artillery shelling in various locations within Gaza, indicating continuing tensions and violence despite the ceasefire. The situation remains dire as the humanitarian crisis deepens amid interruptions of aid and unrest in the region.

Egypt emphasizes the urgency of commencing negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, recognizing potential challenges ahead. The Egyptian Foreign Minister calls for the European Union’s support to pressure Israel into compliance with the ceasefire terms while condemning the blockade of aid. Despite ongoing violence in Gaza resulting in civilian casualties, Egypt seeks to initiate a comprehensive reconstruction plan, highlighting the critical need for cooperation and commitment from involved parties.

Original Source: www.palestinechronicle.com