Egyptian FM discusses building on truce in Gaza with UNRWA chief

CAIRO – 23 November 2023: Minister of Foreign Affairs Sameh Shokry met Thursday with UNRWA Commissioner General Philippe Lazzarini to discuss the humanitarian conditions in Gaza Strip and ways of reinforcing the agency's work in the enclave.

The minister presented Egypt's vision on the crisis and efforts, stressing the necessity of building upon the temporary ceasefire agreed upon between Hamas and Israel. He also denounced the Israeli shelling of civilians and civilian establishments, including those of the UNRWA, incurring scores of deaths and injuries.

On his side, the UNRWA's commissioner general expressed appreciation for the role Egypt played in achieving a truce and a hostage-exchange deal, noting that the ceasefire would allow the increase of aid flow.

In that context, Minister Shokry pointed out that Arab and Islamic countries plan to submit a draft resolution to the UN Security Council in order to ensure a sustainable delivery of aid and alleviation of the impact of the humanitarian crisis on Palestinians.