For many decades, the Palestinian issue has been a central focus of Egyptian foreign policy which has consistently prioritised it on the international and Arab stage.
Egypt’s support for the Palestinian people has not been merely a political choice, but rather a historical and a national responsibility that Egypt has committed to honouring, despite the complexities of the regional and international political landscape.
In line with this enduring role, Egypt continues its intensive efforts to support Palestinian rights, especially given the tragic situation faced by people in the Gaza Strip.
With its strategic location and national role, Egypt spares no effort in supporting the Palestinian people’s right to self-determination and the establishment of their independent state along the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
This steadfast stance, affirmed in various international and regional forums, reflects Egypt’s unwavering commitment to the Palestinian cause as an inseparable part of Arab national security.
Despite the growing challenges faced by Palestinians, Egypt remains steadfast in standing by them, striving for justice and peace.
Within this context, Egypt continues its diplomatic efforts to mobilize political and humanitarian support for Palestine as well as to counter Israeli attempts to eliminate the Palestinian cause, whether through the displacement of Palestinians or by obstructing the work of UNRWA, the only international agency that provides relief and protection for Palestinian refugees.
Egypt has long played a pivotal role in providing humanitarian aid to the Gaza Strip under the difficult conditions faced by its people.
Since the beginning of the current Israeli aggression on Gaza in October last year, Egypt has delivered over 70 per cent of the humanitarian aid that has entered the Strip, whether through shipments of food and medical supplies or by providing treatment and healthcare for thousands of wounded Palestinians who were received in Egyptian hospitals.
The situation in Gaza has reached a critical point, with famine threatening the lives of thousands of civilians, especially in the northern part of the Strip.
A report by the UN Famine Review Committee warned of an imminent famine as a result of current Israeli bombardments and the complete blockade, which has led to the destruction of infrastructure and essential facilities, including hospitals and access to food and water.
Immediate action is needed to ensure the safe, unimpeded flow of humanitarian aid into the Strip by opening the crossings securely.
Additionally, the role of UNRWA in providing assistance and relief to displaced persons is now more essential than ever.
Egypt emphasises the moral responsibility of the international community to act in UN forums to protect UNRWA and provide the necessary support to ensure it can continue delivering humanitarian services to the Palestinians in Gaza.
As the heart of the Arab world and a voice for international justice, Egypt will continue its steadfast support for the Palestinian people and intensify its efforts to halt Israeli aggression.
Egypt’s historical responsibility, alongside its humanitarian role in supporting Palestinians in Gaza, is non-negotiable.
Now, more than ever before, the humanitarian situation in Gaza demands urgent action by the international community, particularly through supporting UNRWA and ensuring the continued arrival of humanitarian aid to those in need, before the situation worsens and lives become impossible to save.
Mohamed Fahmy is the editor-in-chief of The Egyptian Gazette and Egyptian Mail newspapers
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