Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aty discussed with Saudi Foreign Minister Prince Faisal bin Farhan the catastrophic situation in Gaza amid the ongoing Israeli assault. In a phone call on Tuesday evening, the two ministers firmly rejected the Israeli cabinet's decision to draw up a plan to occupy Gaza and expand the offensive. They said this aimed to entrench the illegal occupation of Palestinian land, continue what they described as a genocide against the defenceless Palestinian people, and undermine their right to self-determination and to establish an independent state, in clear violation of international and humanitarian law. Abdel-Aty outlined Egypt's ongoing efforts with Qatar and the United States to reach a deal that secures the release of hostages and some Palestinian detainees, halts the bloodshed, and ensures full and unconditional access for aid. The ministers agreed on the need for an immediate ceasefire and urgent, unhindered access for humanitarian, relief and medical assistance. They called for an end to what they described as systematic starvation and killing, which fuel conflict and extremism. They stressed the need to protect civilians and enable the Palestinian people to exercise their right to establish an independent state on the June 4, 1967 lines, with East Jerusalem as its capital. They also reviewed broader regional developments, exchanging views on ways to address current challenges and crises in Sudan, Syria and Lebanon. They agreed to maintain close coordination between their countries and emphasised the importance of joint Arab action to support regional security and stability. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
