Egyptian, Iranian FMs discuss ways to reach comprehensive ceasefire in Gaza

CAIRO – 25 December 2023: Egyptian Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shoukry received a phone call from his Iranian counterpart Hossein Amir Abdollahian on Monday. They discussed the situation in the Gaza Strip, as well as followed up on talks regarding their bilateral issues.

The two ministers exchanged visions on the deteriorating humanitarian and security conditions in the Gaza Strip, and the international efforts to alleviate the humanitarian crisis that Palestinian people are suffering from.

Minister Shoukry briefed his Iranian counterpart on the results of Egypt’s communications regarding a comprehensive ceasefire and ensuring full and sustainable entry of humanitarian aid into the Gaza Strip.

Shoukry also affirmed the need to fully implement the UNSC’s recent resolution No. 2720 regarding the establishment of an international mechanism to facilitate the entry and monitoring of humanitarian aid into Gaza.

Since October 7, 2023, Israel has killed 20,424 Palestinians in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank and injured about 54,036 citizens, more than 70% of whom are women and children.

On December 23, 2023, the UN Security Council adopted a resolution demanding immediate, safe and unhindered delivery of humanitarian assistance at scale directly to the Palestinian civilian population throughout the Gaza Strip.

The UNSC resolution on Gaza was adopted with 13 votes in favor, and the US and Russia abstaining.