Cairo: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty emphasized Egypt's support for "full de-escalation, not escalation" in the Bab el-Mandeb Strait and stressed the importance of freedom of navigation, highlighting Egypt's nearly $11 billion loss from navigation issues in the area.
According to Anadolu Agency, Abdelatty made these remarks during a briefing with foreign media representatives, where he outlined Egypt's stance on several regional and international issues. His comments come amid renewed tensions in Bab el-Mandeb as Yemen's Houthi group moves to control the strategic maritime area.
Abdelatty highlighted the significant impact on Egypt due to navigation disruptions, especially concerning the Suez Canal, and stated that Cairo is in continuous contact with Yemen's legitimate government to reduce escalation. Since late 2023, navigation in the Red Sea and Bab el-Mandeb has been disrupted due to Houthi attacks on ships allegedly linked to Israel, which has affected Suez Canal traffic and revenues.
On the topic of Gaza, Abdelatty discussed Egypt's efforts to implement the Gaza agreement's first phase and move to the second phase of the US peace plan. He mentioned that Egypt and its partners had convinced Palestinian factions, including Hamas, to disarm in exchange for Israel's withdrawal from occupied areas in Gaza. However, the full implementation of these phases remains incomplete, particularly the entry of aid trucks into Gaza.
Abdelatty underscored the necessity to halt Israeli actions undermining peace efforts, such as settlement expansion, which jeopardizes the possibility of establishing a Palestinian state. Since October 8, 2023, Israel, with US backing, has engaged in military actions in Gaza, resulting in significant casualties and infrastructure damage.
Regarding Iran, Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt's commitment to de-escalation and diplomacy, advocating for a return to the Islamabad memorandum of understanding between Iran and the US. He stressed the importance of ensuring maritime security in the Strait of Hormuz to maintain trade and energy flows, noting the regional repercussions of US-Iran tensions.
Abdelatty also addressed Arab national security, emphasizing the need for collective capacity to protect it, adherence to international law, and the importance of the Joint Arab Defense Treaty. He called for respecting state sovereignty and avoiding actions that could escalate regional tensions.
In Sudan, Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's support for Sudan's sovereignty and territorial integrity, advocating for political solutions to the ongoing crisis. Since April 2023, conflict between the Rapid Support Forces and the Sudanese army has resulted in significant humanitarian challenges.
On Lebanon, Abdelatty condemned Israeli attacks and emphasized the need for implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 to ensure Lebanon's stability and sovereignty.
Finally, addressing the Nile Basin, Abdelatty stated that Egypt's policy focuses on cooperation and shared interests, rejecting unilateral actions that violate international law. He affirmed that Egypt would take necessary measures to protect its water rights and resources.