FM steps up contacts to avert regional war

Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs, Emigration, and Expatriates Affairs Badr Abdel-Aati stressed the urgent need to reduce tensions arising from the Israeli aggression on Lebanon, calling for restraint to prevent a potential regional war that could threaten both regional and international peace and security.

Minister Abdel-Aati made these remarks during a phone call with Lebanon’s caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, where they discussed the ongoing situation in Lebanon.

This call is part of Abdel-Aati’s ongoing contacts with various regional and international stakeholders, including the foreign ministers of the US, UK, France, and others, said the Foreign Ministry Spokesman Tamim Khallaf.

Abdel-Aati outlined Egypt’s efforts to broker ceasefire and de-escalate tension in Lebanon. He stressed the importance of supporting Lebanese institutions, particularly the Lebanese army, while also adhering to UN Security Council Resolution 1701.

Abdel-Aati reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to providing political and humanitarian assistance to Lebanon during these challenging times. He also highlighted the critical need for all parties to collaborate in electing a new president to end the current presidential vacuum in Lebanon.

Foreign Minister Abdel-Aati also received a phone call from Mr. Jean-Yves Le Drian, the French President’s Special Envoy to Lebanon, during which they discussed the ongoing developments in Lebanon and the urgent need for increased coordination and consultation to manage the current regional escalation.

Minister Abdel-Aati expressed concern over the rapid escalation, emphasising the necessity for swift, coordinated efforts to achieve a ceasefire and stop the aggression against Lebanon. He called on all parties to exercise restraint to prevent further regional tensions.

Minister Abdel Aati highlighted Egypt’s proactive efforts to facilitate a ceasefire and resolve the presidential vacuum in Lebanon, reiterating Egypt’s firm stance against any infringement on Lebanon’s sovereignty and territorial integrity.

Additionally, he asserted that a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, full access to humanitarian aid, and an end to Israeli attacks in the West Bank are essential steps to halt the dangerous escalation and prevent the region from descending into a total war.