Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Al-Masry Al-Youm
Published on 2024-02-14 10:15:50
The global community has been steadfast in its rejection of the Israeli occupation’s plan to invade Rafah in the southern Gaza Strip. Despite the extensive international pressure, the bombing of various areas in the city continues. Countries such as Cairo, Doha, and Washington have warned of the dire consequences of the attack and have emphasized the need for concerted international efforts to prevent the expansion of the conflict and the escalation of tensions in the region.
In an effort to address the situation, Cairo hosted a quadripartite meeting with Qatari, American, and Israeli participation to discuss a potential truce in Gaza. According to a high-level Egyptian source, the meeting also addressed the release of Palestinian prisoners in exchange for Israeli detainees and a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.
On Tuesday, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi met with Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of Qatar Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman al-Thani and the head of the US Central Intelligence Agency, William Burns, to review efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire in Gaza and protecting civilians. During the meeting with the Qatari Foreign Minister, Sisi touched on joint efforts in this regard as well as the implementation of humanitarian aid.
Both meetings emphasized the extreme danger of escalation in operations in Rafah, southern Gaza, and warned against the dire consequences of such action. The need for concerted international efforts to prevent the expansion of the conflict was reiterated. Burns commended Egypt’s tireless efforts in advancing a ceasefire and the exchange of detainees, as well as its role in providing humanitarian aid to Gaza since the war broke out. The two sides also discussed the ongoing consultation and coordination required to achieve the goals of a ceasefire, protect civilians, and activate the two-state solution.
The South African presidency has submitted an urgent request to the International Court of Justice regarding Israel’s decision to expand its military operations in Rafah, further highlighting the international concern about the situation.
Experts have commended Egypt for its effective efforts to achieve a ceasefire. Ambassador Mounir Zahran, former head of Egypt’s permanent delegation to the United Nations, emphasized Egypt’s unwavering support for the Palestinian people and their national rights. Former Assistant Foreign Minister Ambassador Gamal Bayoumi noted Cairo’s wise approach in supporting peace and preventing escalation. Palestinian politician Shafiq al-Talouli expressed confidence in Egypt’s role in ensuring that life will return to normal.
The global community’s response to the situation in Rafah underscores the significance of international cooperation in addressing conflicts and promoting peace in the region. Egypt’s active role in advancing a ceasefire and humanitarian aid demonstrates its commitment to promoting stability and security. As tensions continue to escalate, the need for diplomatic efforts and international collaboration becomes increasingly crucial in addressing the ongoing conflict in Gaza.
Read Original article on Egypt Independent
