Cairo:Egypt has initiated discussions with Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates to address regional de-escalation, focusing on a collaborative ministerial mechanism involving Türkiye and Pakistan, as stated by the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

According to Anadolu Agency – English, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty conducted separate phone conversations on Tuesday with Saudi Foreign Minister Faisal bin Farhan and UAE Foreign Minister Abdullah bin Zayed. During these discussions, Abdelatty emphasized the importance of advancing political and peaceful solutions through dialogue to contain the current crisis and mitigate the risks of escalation.

The conversations highlighted a commitment to maintaining close consultations and coordination through a four-way ministerial mechanism that includes Egypt, Pakistan, Türkiye, and Saudi Arabia. This mechanism aims to enhance consultation and coordination on de-escalation and support political solutions to regional crises.

The talks occurred shortly after Egypt's parliament authorized President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to take necessary actions in support of Saudi Arabia, focusing on defending its territory, sovereignty, and holy sites in coordination with the kingdom. This development comes amid ongoing military tensions between Saudi Arabia and Yemen's Houthi group, which have seen attacks on Saudi civil aviation facilities and energy infrastructure.

In addition to these discussions, Abdelatty and his Emirati counterpart addressed the latest regional developments and growing indications of possible escalation. Abdelatty stressed the need for regional cooperation to achieve peaceful solutions and prevent further deterioration of the crisis.

These diplomatic efforts are part of broader mediation attempts to ease tensions between Washington and Tehran, particularly concerning the reopening of the Strait of Hormuz. Previous negotiations between the US and Tehran, related to maritime navigation through this strategic passage, have collapsed due to disagreements.