Egypt Warns of Expansion of Gaza Conflict Amid Israeli Attacks
Egypt has issued a warning, expressing concern that the ongoing Israeli war on the Gaza Strip will lead to a further escalation of the conflict in the region. The warning came during a meeting in Cairo between Egypt’s Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry and a delegation from the United States, led by Senator Johnny Ernst.
During the meeting, Shoukry reaffirmed Egypt’s rejection of any displacement of Palestinians or the eradication of the Palestinian issue. In a statement released by the Foreign Ministry, he called for an immediate cease-fire in the Gaza Strip and urged for the provision of sufficient humanitarian aid to meet the needs of the population in the territory.
Furthermore, Shoukry called upon influential international actors, including the United States, to fulfill their responsibilities in curbing Israeli violations in Gaza and holding those responsible accountable. He emphasized the importance of maintaining security in the Red Sea, as it plays a crucial role in facilitating the smooth and secure flow of global trade.
The recent attacks by Yemen’s Houthi rebels on commercial ships in the Red Sea have been seen as a retaliatory response to the military offensive carried out by Israel in the Gaza Strip. Since a cross-border attack by Hamas, a Palestinian resistance group, on October 7, Israel has launched a series of air and ground attacks on the Gaza Strip.
According to Gaza’s health authorities, the Israeli onslaught has resulted in the deaths of at least 22,313 Palestinians, with 57,296 others sustaining injuries. In contrast, it is estimated that nearly 1,200 Israelis have been killed in the Hamas attack. As a result of the ongoing conflict, Gaza’s infrastructure has been left severely damaged, with 60% of the enclave’s buildings and facilities destroyed. Additionally, the dire situation has led to the displacement of nearly 2 million residents and a scarcity of essential resources such as food, clean water, and medicines.
In light of these circumstances, Egypt is urging the international community to take urgent action to address the escalating crisis. The country seeks to restore stability in the region, alleviate the suffering of the Palestinian people, and prevent the further deterioration of the situation.
Egypt’s warning serves as a reminder that the continuation of the conflict in Gaza poses a significant threat to regional security and stability. The international community, particularly influential actors like the United States, must play an active role in seeking a peaceful resolution to the crisis and addressing the urgent humanitarian needs of the affected population.
As tensions persist and the situation remains volatile, it is crucial for all parties involved to prioritize diplomacy and dialogue. Only through a concerted and collective effort can the cycle of violence be broken, and a lasting peace be achieved in Gaza and the broader region.
