Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdel-Aty met Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araqchi on Monday in Jeddah on the sidelines of the extraordinary meeting of the Organisation of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to discuss the Israeli assault on Gaza. The two ministers exchanged views on the catastrophic situation in Gaza and preparations for the OIC ministerial meeting later in the day to explore mechanisms to end the assault on Palestinians. Abdel-Aty reviewed Egypt's efforts to secure a ceasefire, ensure humanitarian aid delivery, and achieve the release of hostages and detainees. He highlighted the ceasefire proposal presented by Egypt and Qatar, aimed at easing the suffering of Palestinians in Gaza and ensuring adequate aid flows amid what he described as a systematic starvation policy. The minister also reaffirmed Egypt's position on Lebanon, stressing the need to halt foreign interference in Lebanese affairs, respect the country's sovereignty, and secure Israel's withdrawal from the five occupied points in line with international resolutions. He urged the full and non-selective implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and expressed support for strengthening Lebanese national institutions. On Syria, Abdel-Aty rejected any moves that could undermine the security, safety, and stability of the Syrian people. He underlined the importance of ensuring Syria does not become a source of regional instability. Regarding Iran's nuclear file, the ministers discussed ongoing developments and efforts to de-escalate tensions, create conditions for resuming talks with the International Atomic Energy Agency and the United States, and find peaceful solutions that build mutual trust and foster regional security. Attribution: Amwal Al Ghad English Subediting: M. S. Salama
