Egypt and Qatar Discuss Escalating Conflicts in Lebanon and Gaza

Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty engaged in discussions with Qatar’s Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani about the crises in Lebanon and Gaza, emphasizing the need for ceasefires, humanitarian aid, and the reinforcement of Lebanon’s institutions in light of escalating violence and regional tensions.

On Saturday, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, conducted a phone conversation with Qatar’s Prime Minister and Foreign Minister, Mohammed bin Abdulrahman Al Thani, primarily focusing on the escalating situations in Lebanon and Gaza. The discussion included ongoing initiatives to broker a ceasefire in Gaza, facilitate the release of hostages, and ensure unimpeded humanitarian assistance to the besieged region. Minister Abdelatty underscored Egypt’s commitment to fostering Palestinian reconciliation by hosting delegations from both Fatah and Hamas in Cairo. Additionally, Minister Abdelatty engaged in a dialogue on Friday with Jean-Yves Le Drian, France’s Foreign Minister, regarding the unfolding crises in Lebanon and Gaza. Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, spokesperson for Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, communicated that Abdelatty expressed grave concerns over the uptick in violence in Lebanon, particularly highlighting incidents where the Israeli army targeted UNIFIL positions, resulting in injuries to two UN peacekeepers. He emphasized the imperative for the Israeli army to uphold the safety and security of UN personnel and property. Abdelatty reiterated the necessity for an immediate ceasefire and the de-escalation of regional tensions, accentuating Egypt’s ongoing endeavors to avert further conflicts in the area. He reaffirmed Egypt’s stance against any violations of Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity and underscored the importance of reinforcing Lebanese institutions, particularly the Lebanese armed forces. Furthermore, he advocated for adherence by all parties to the United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 in its entirety. The ministers also deliberated on the deteriorating situation in Lebanon amidst continued Israeli hostilities, reiterating the critical need for a ceasefire, the empowerment of Lebanese institutions, especially the army, and the implementation of UN Resolution 1701. This resolution facilitates the deployment of the Lebanese army in southern Lebanon and emphasizes the necessity of electing a president through a consensus among Lebanese factions. Moreover, the significance of international efforts to provide humanitarian, medical, and shelter assistance to the Lebanese populace, who are grappling with a serious humanitarian crisis exacerbated by the displacement of over 1.2 million individuals, was a focal point of their dialogue. Minister Abdelatty expressed profound concern regarding the humanitarian conditions in Lebanon, advocating for urgent relief aid to assist the Lebanese government in addressing the pressing humanitarian emergency. Lastly, Abdelatty called for a ceasefire in Gaza, unrestricted access to humanitarian supplies, and a cessation of Israeli assaults in the West Bank. He also acknowledged France’s unwavering support for the rights of the Palestinian people and the establishment of an independent Palestinian nation based on the tenets of the two-state solution.

The current discussions revolve around the complicated geopolitical climate in the Middle East, particularly focusing on the crises in Gaza and Lebanon. A surge of violence has recently occurred in both areas, necessitating urgent international diplomatic intervention. Egypt, as a pivotal player in regional politics, is focused on mediating conflicts and facilitating humanitarian aid, while also seeking to bolster Palestinian unity and rights. The United Nations Security Council Resolution 1701 is a critical framework that underscores the importance of stability in Lebanon and the region at large, providing guidelines aimed at maintaining peace and supporting the Lebanese state.

In conclusion, through dialogue with global leaders, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to resolving the crises in Lebanon and Gaza. He emphasized the need for an immediate ceasefire, adherence to international resolutions, and measures to ensure humanitarian aid access. The discussions reflect a broader aim to promote stability and support the sovereignty and integrity of Lebanon, while advocating for Palestinian rights amid ongoing conflicts.

Original Source: www.dailynewsegypt.com