Egyptian officials firmly denied reports of a phone conversation between President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and former U.S. President Donald Trump.
State media on Tuesday clarified that no such communication occurred over the weekend, countering claims circulating in various outlets. Officials stated any discussion between the leaders would have been formally announced.
The denial follows Trump’s remarks proposing the relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to Egypt and Jordan, a suggestion met with widespread criticism. Trump indicated on Saturday that he planned to discuss the matter with Sisi. However, no confirmation of a call has been issued by either leader’s office.
On Monday, Trump claimed the call took place, expressing a wish for Egypt to “take some” of Gaza’s displaced population. This remark added to the tension surrounding his controversial proposal to “clean out” Gaza.
Egypt’s foreign ministry responded on Sunday with a stern statement, rejecting any violation of Palestinians’ rights to their homeland. The ministry emphasized these rights must be upheld both temporarily and permanently.
Egypt, a pivotal U.S. ally in the region, recently secured an exemption from Trump’s foreign aid freeze, a privilege shared only with Israel. This development further underscores the delicate dynamics in the region.
As speculation persists, Egypt continues to stand firm on preserving Palestinian sovereignty and resisting external pressures to alter its stance.