Egypt supports intl. efforts aimed at achieving pacification southern Lebanon: FM

CAIRO – 6 August 2024: In a joint press conference with his Lebanese counterpart Tuesday, Minister of Foreign Affairs, Immigration and Egyptian Expats Badr Abdelatty stressed Egypt's stance on preserving the territorial integrity, safety and stability of Lebanon.

The minister added that Egypt supports all international efforts aimed at achieving pacification southern Lebanon and implementing UNSC resolution no. 1701. The resolution issued in 2006 calls for the deployment of Lebanese forces to Southern Lebanon, strengthening the UN force (UNIFIL) to facilitate the entry of Lebanese Forces in the region and the establishment of a demilitarised zone between the Blue Line and the Litani River, among other measures.

As for the Gaza War, the minister pointed out that the Egyptian government was still deploying mediation efforts to attain a captive swap deal between Israel and Hamas. He also stipulated that the two-state solution is the comprehensive and fair settlement to the Palestinian Cause, and consequently, the guarantee of sustainable peace in the Middle East.

Regarding the regional tensions, Minister Abdelatty encouraged all parties to exercise self-restraint and inhibit the outbreak of a big regional war.

On his side, Lebanese Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib expressed appreciation to Egypt for its support to the sovereignty and stability of Lebanon, noting that the recent Israeli escalation undermines the security and stability of the region, and reflects its intentions to extend the duration of the conflict.

The Lebanese minister also asserted that the implementation of UNSC resolution no. 1701 would help his country reinstate its stability and sovereignty. On another level, he expressed support to Egypt's stance that rejects the displacement of Palestinians.

The communication Egypt held with different parties with the aim of de-escalation over the past few weeks included three phone calls with the U.S. secretary of state, and others with acting Iranian foreign minister, Russian foreign minister, the Lebanese prime minister. In addition, there will be a phone call with the Chinese foreign minister later today, as stated by Minister Abdelatty.