Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi urged an immediate halt to the fighting in Gaza and Lebanon during a meeting on Saturday. He emphasized the need for stronger efforts towards a cease-fire and the exchange of hostages in Gaza.
The remarks were made during a meeting with a bipartisan delegation from the US House of Representatives, led by Congressman Tom Cole, chair of the Appropriations Committee. The Egyptian presidency confirmed the details of the meeting.
Al-Sisi stressed the importance of avoiding further conflict escalation, urging action to restore peace and stability. He called for a decisive approach to cease hostilities and facilitate the release of hostages in Gaza.
He also reiterated Egypt’s position that establishing an independent Palestinian state is crucial for reducing regional tensions and achieving sustainable peace and security.
Egypt, along with Qatar and the United States, has been mediating indirect talks between Israel and Hamas. However, these efforts have yet to yield an agreement as Israel refuses to halt its military offensive or withdraw from Gaza.
Cross-border clashes between Israeli forces and Hezbollah fighters in Lebanon continue. Israel intensified attacks late last month, resulting in the death of Hezbollah leader Hassan Nasrallah and several commanders.
The ongoing conflict has claimed over 1,500 lives and displaced approximately 1.3 million people in Lebanon. In Gaza, over 42,500 people have died since the conflict escalated. The recent killing of Hamas leader Yahya Sinwar follows the earlier assassination of Ismail Haniyeh in July.