Egypt is leading intensive diplomatic efforts to mediate between the United States and Iran to encourage a negotiating path and avoid “total chaos” in the Middle East, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said on Wednesday.
Speaking during an expanded briefing for regional and international media representatives in Cairo, Abdelatty stated that Egypt is coordinating with regional and international partners to contain the current military escalation. He affirmed Egypt’s “absolute solidarity” with its brothers in the Gulf, Jordan, and Iraq in the face of “unjustified Iranian attacks,” stressing that Gulf security is an “integral part of Egyptian national security.”
Abdelatty detailed these efforts during a telephone call with Massad Boulos, senior advisor to U.S. President Donald Trump for Arab and African affairs. Boulos conveyed Trump’s appreciation for President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s “pioneering role” and mediation efforts regarding the Iranian file. The two officials discussed the “dire economic consequences” of continued warfare on the Egyptian and global economies, specifically citing impacts on international navigation, supply chains, and inflation.
In a separate discussion with Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi, Abdelatty highlighted the 70th anniversary of diplomatic ties between Cairo and Beijing. He expressed Egypt’s desire to double the value of their existing currency swap agreement and expand cooperation with the China Development Bank to increase the value of Chinese bonds. Both ministers emphasised the need to contain the “deteriorating situation” through continuous communication with all concerned parties.
On the Palestinian issue, Abdelatty condemned Israeli annexation and settlement policies in the West Bank. He revealed that Egypt is working with international parties to implement the second phase of “President Trump’s plan,” which includes a scheduled withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza. Abdelatty noted that Egypt is currently training Palestinian police elements to empower the National Committee for the Management of Gaza, preparing for the Palestinian Authority to resume full responsibilities in both Gaza and the West Bank.
Regarding the conflict in Lebanon, the Foreign Minister condemned Israeli incursions into southern Lebanon and called for the “non-selective” implementation of UN Resolution 1701. He confirmed that Egypt has delivered more than 1,000 tonnes of aid to address the displacement crisis and supports the state’s exclusive right to hold arms and exercise sovereignty over its entire territory.
Addressing the crisis in Sudan, Abdelatty outlined Egyptian efforts within the “Quad” framework alongside Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and the United States. He called for an urgent humanitarian truce to facilitate a comprehensive political settlement. Abdelatty underscored Egyptian “red lines,” stating a categorical rejection of any threat to Sudan’s unity and refusing to “equate national state institutions with militias.”
Minister of State for Information Dhiaa Rashwan, who co-hosted the briefing, noted that official media coverage in Egypt and the Gulf reflects “complete coordination” and is free of any mutual negative reporting. He warned against social media efforts to “incite strife,” asserting that such voices do not reflect established official policies.
The briefing, coordinated with the Foreign Press Centre of the State Information Service, also addressed Egyptian water security and relations with international partners amidst the regional military escalation.
