Macron: President Sisi plays 'distinguished role' in delivering aid to civilians in Gaza

CAIRO – 24 October 2023: French President Emmanuel Macron said that the Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al Sisi plays 'distinguished role' in delivering aid to civilians in Gaza.

During meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Macron said that France will continue to support the Palestinian people and the Palestinian authorities.

Abbas demanded a ceasefire along with the opening of safe corridors to pass aid and provide water, electricity and fuel.

“We stress the necessity of stopping the displacement of Palestinian citizens, whether from Gaza or the West Bank.”

In the security council session on the developments at the Middle east, UN Secretary-General of António Guterres said in his speech that Hamas’s attack did not happen for no reason.

“They have been under occupation for 75 years; however, I don’t say that this justifies the attack, neither the 7th of October attack justifies the currant ‘collective punishment’ over Gaza. Even War has rules. We must demand all parties to respect the international law.” Guterres said

He added that 35 UNRWA employees were killed during the attacks that have been ongoing for two weeks in Gaza.

“Civilians must be protected. No party in any armed conflict is above the international law. Fortunately, Humanitarian aid has begun entering Gaza, but it is ‘small drop in what Gaza needs. Aid must continuously enter Gaza without any restrictions.” Guterres said.

The UN Secretary-General renewed his call for the necessity of reaching a ceasefire in Gaza.

He added: “We must not ignore the basic and fundamental solution to the conflict, which is the two-state solution”

Oscar Wennesland, UN Special Coordinator for the Middle East Peace welcomed in her Egypt’s summit for peace that was held in Cairo seeking peace within the region, along with all efforts exerted by all countries to take serious steps towards peace.

Also, Lynn Hastings, U.N. humanitarian coordinator for the occupied Palestinian Territory, said: “We are grateful for both of Egypt and Qatar’s efforts to release the hostages, and we welcome all diplomatic efforts to release the remaining hostages.”