Egypt Seeks Gaza Ceasefire with US and Qatari Support, Urges Hamas and Israel to Protect Civilians

Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry stated that Egypt, with the support of the United States and Qatar, is working to achieve a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip. Shoukry emphasized that both Hamas and Israel must show the political will to reach a ceasefire and protect civilians.

The Gaza Health Ministry reported that 42 people were killed and 63 injured in the past 24 hours. Over 33,000 people, including 20,000 women and children, have been killed in the ongoing conflict, which Shoukry described as "appalling" and said "must stop." "The situation in Gaza is dire, with over 33,000 people killed, mostly women and children," Shoukry stated, calling for the international community to focus on protecting the lives and safety of the Palestinian people and delivering humanitarian assistance.

The war has pushed 85% of Gaza's population into internal displacement and damaged or destroyed 60% of the enclave's infrastructure. Global calls for a ceasefire have been growing as the war has continued for seven months.

Why this matters: The escalating violence in Gaza threatens to further destabilize the region and exacerbate the humanitarian crisis. The involvement of Egypt, the US, and Qatar in brokering a ceasefire underscores the urgent need for international intervention to prevent further loss of life and destruction.

Despite obstacles, Palestinian Prime Minister Dr. Mohammed Mustafa praised Egypt's critical role in providing relief to Gaza during a meeting with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El Sisi. The two sides discussed Egypt's efforts to achieve a ceasefire, release prisoners, and ensure the delivery of essential aid to tackle the humanitarian crisis. They also rejected the displacement of Palestinians from their lands and emphasized the need to resolve the Palestinian issue to restore security and stability in the region.

Shoukry stressed the need to provide humanitarian assistance to Gazans and regain peace and security, as well as a political horizon to provide the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people and the creation of their state in line with the June 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. He warned that instability and the expansion of the conflict could lead to more refugees and expressed concern about the increase in hostilities between Israel and Iran.

Key Takeaways

• Egypt, US, and Qatar working to achieve Gaza ceasefire between Hamas and Israel.
• Over 33,000 killed in the conflict, mostly women and children, in dire humanitarian crisis.
• 85% of Gaza's population internally displaced, 60% of infrastructure damaged or destroyed.
• Egypt praised for providing relief, efforts to achieve ceasefire and deliver essential aid.
• Concern over instability, expansion of conflict, and increase in Israel-Iran hostilities.