Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry expressed grave concerns over the Israeli military's actions in Gaza, particularly in Rafah, during a phone call with US Secretary of State Antony Blinken. Shoukry highlighted that these actions pose serious security risks and threaten the stability of the region.
More than 1 million Palestinians sought refuge in Rafah, located on Gaza's border with Egypt, to escape the prolonged conflict in the enclave. Despite international apprehension regarding the potential civilian casualties, Israel has been making plans to invade the southern Gaza city.
Shoukry reiterated to Blinken the dire humanitarian consequences resulting from Israeli troops taking control of the Palestinian side of the Rafah crossing, a crucial entry point for aid located on the Egyptian border. He also emphasized the urgent need to restore aid access to Gaza, as stated in a read-out of the call released by the Egyptian foreign ministry.
Egypt, a significant mediator in discussions between Israel and Hamas, announced its support for South Africa's genocide case against Israel at the International Court of Justice. This decision was made in response to the escalating severity and extent of Israeli attacks on Palestinian civilians in the Gaza Strip.
