Egypt’s foreign minister emphasized the importance of the United States communicating to Israel the potential repercussions of a military operation in the southern Gaza city of Rafah, near the border with Egypt.
Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated Israel’s intention to advance into Rafah during a cabinet meeting, despite international pressure urging restraint due to concerns about civilian casualties. Rafah currently serves as a refuge for over a million displaced individuals from other parts of Gaza.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry, alongside United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) chief Philippe Lazzarini, stressed the need for more than just verbal opposition, emphasizing the importance of outlining the consequences if Israel proceeds with its plans.
Shoukry emphasized the catastrophic humanitarian impact and loss of life that could result from an Israeli ground assault on Rafah. Egypt, which controls the Rafah crossing, a crucial point for humanitarian aid delivery and the movement of injured individuals and foreign nationals, has previously warned of dire consequences should Israel launch a military operation near its border.