Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry engaged in discussions with his Israeli and Iranian counterparts to emphasize the importance of maintaining tranquility and peace amidst escalating tensions in the region. Shoukry expressed concerns over the tit-for-tat retaliatory actions between Israel and Iran, highlighting that such actions do not contribute to resolving the longstanding conflicts in the region and could lead to a dangerous cycle of reprisals with severe consequences for both nations.
The recent escalation in tensions stemmed from Iran launching strikes on Israel in response to a suspected Israeli attack on Tehran's consulate in Damascus, Syria. As Israel contemplates its response, regional leaders and allies have cautioned against further escalation, particularly in light of Israel's military operations in Gaza. Efforts to negotiate a hostage release and secure a ceasefire in Gaza are currently underway, as confirmed by Shoukry.
Israel had initially planned a ground invasion of the southern Gaza city of Rafah but postponed the operation, prompting mass displacement of Palestinian civilians fleeing the bombardment. Shoukry addressed the possibility of Egypt temporarily accommodating Gazan refugees, emphasizing Egypt's commitment to acting in the best interests of the Palestinian people. He condemned the displacement of Palestinians resulting from Israeli military actions in Rafah as a potential war crime.
