**Egypt to Iran: Avoid Escalation and Further Violence in the Region**
*Calls for Ceasefire and Resolution Amid Ongoing Gaza Conflict and Israeli Violations*
Egypt has emphasized the need to prevent further violence and escalation in the region amidst the ongoing war in Gaza and repeated Israeli violations of international and humanitarian law.
In a phone call on Saturday, Egyptian Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry discussed the regional crisis with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, focusing on the continuing conflict in Gaza and Israeli breaches of international standards.
Shoukry expressed Egypt’s hope for a ceasefire agreement and a successful hostage and prisoner exchange deal. He stressed the importance of mediation efforts to reduce tensions and prevent the region from falling into a cycle of violence and escalation.
The two ministers agreed to continue consultations on bilateral relations and regional developments in the coming period.
On the diplomatic front regarding Gaza, the United States continues to pressure Israel to end the hostilities following the October 7 attack on Israel, which sparked the ongoing conflict. According to Israeli statistics, around 1,200 people were killed and 250 others were kidnapped in the attack. Health officials in Gaza report that the subsequent Israeli response has resulted in the deaths of over 40,000 Palestinians.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu is facing intense pressure from the families of Israeli hostages still in Gaza to reach an agreement. He is heavily criticized for failing to secure a deal, with some accusing him of obstructing an agreement for personal political gain.
By/radwa sherif ✏️✏️📚