French parliamentary delegation acknowledges Egypt's efforts for Gaza ceasefire

CAIRO – 4 February 2024: Éric Coquerel, the head of France's National Assembly delegation to Cairo, expressed his appreciation for Egypt's endeavors to reach a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

During a press conference in Cairo on Saturday, Coquerel stated, "We commend Egypt's role in the ongoing negotiations and hope they lead to an inclusive ceasefire in Gaza, rather than just the entry of aid."

The French lawmaker extended gratitude to the Egyptian authorities for facilitating the visit of the 22-member delegation from the French National Assembly to Rafah on Sunday. The visit serves as a symbolic gesture to demonstrate support for the ceasefire efforts.

The purpose of the visit is to advocate for an immediate and enduring ceasefire, putting an end to all acts of violence, halting Israeli military intervention that exacerbates the crisis, and preventing further harm to the Palestinians in Gaza.

Coquerel emphasized that only then can meaningful negotiations begin, recognizing the rights of the Palestinians as affirmed by multiple United Nations resolutions.

He concluded by underlining the significance of achieving peace, which is crucial for both the Palestinian and Israeli people.

Egypt is currently engaged in intensified global efforts to secure the release of captives held in Gaza and negotiate an extended ceasefire amidst ongoing Israeli aggression since October 7.

Hamas is currently studying a ceasefire proposal generated by negotiators from Egypt, the United States, Israel and Qatar, which may result in the freeing of more than 100 captives in Gaza and hundreds of Palestinian prisoners.

If approved, the proposal may also lead to a prolonged ceasefire in the war-ravaged strip.