Brussels: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi and EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy Kaja Kallas have called for a reinforcement of the ceasefire in the Gaza Strip.

According to Anadolu Agency, the initial phase of the ceasefire agreement between Hamas and Israel, based on a plan proposed by US President Donald Trump, commenced on October 10. During a meeting in Brussels, ahead of the first Egypt-EU summit, President Sisi highlighted Egypt's commitment to collaborating with the EU to implement both the ceasefire and Trump's proposed plan. The Egyptian presidency released a statement emphasizing the need to bolster the ceasefire, facilitate the regular entry of humanitarian aid, and initiate the reconstruction of the Gaza Strip.

Reports from Israeli media indicate that the progression to the second phase of the ceasefire agreement is contingent on the return of Israeli captives' bodies from Gaza. Hamas has conveyed a requirement for additional time and resources to locate and recover these bodies.

President Sisi also announced Egypt's intention to host an international conference in November, aimed at discussing the reconstruction and recovery of Gaza. The United Nations has estimated the reconstruction cost at about $70 billion, with the area being home to approximately 2.4 million Palestinians.

Kaja Kallas described Trump's plan for Gaza as a 'positive step' and expressed the EU's eagerness to participate actively in its implementation. She highlighted the importance of maintaining the Palestinian Authority and expressed the EU's readiness to support Gaza's reconstruction, including participation in the November conference hosted by Egypt.

Kallas reiterated the necessity of solidifying the ceasefire in Gaza, as stated in the Egyptian presidential release. In March 2024, Egypt and the EU formalized a declaration that elevated their relationship to a comprehensive strategic partnership.