Cairo: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty discussed on Wednesday with US special envoy Steve Witkoff efforts to reach a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid, and resume negotiations on Iran's nuclear program. The conversation took place during a phone call between Abdelatty and Witkoff, focusing on critical issues affecting the region.

According to Anadolu Agency, the call occurred ahead of Witkoff's visit to the region and centered on efforts aimed at reaching a ceasefire agreement in Gaza, ensuring unconditional access for humanitarian aid, and securing the release of a number of hostages and prisoners. The two sides exchanged views on the joint efforts of the three guarantor parties-Egypt, the United States, and Qatar-to secure the ceasefire by intensifying pressure to facilitate reaching an agreement as soon as possible.

Abdelatty provided a detailed overview of the worsening humanitarian catastrophe in the Gaza Strip, citing violations that have exacerbated the crisis. Witkoff is expected to arrive in Israel, where he will meet with Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu and other Israeli officials to discuss the situation in Gaza and explore possible solutions.

An Israeli official indicated that Witkoff's visit aims to exert pressure to finalize a ceasefire deal. Last week, Israeli and US negotiators returned from indirect talks in Doha, Qatar, seeking avenues to de-escalate tensions. The conflict has resulted in significant casualties, with over 60,100 Palestinians, mostly women and children, killed in the Gaza Strip since October 2023. The relentless bombardment has devastated the enclave, with reports indicating a severe humanitarian crisis.