Cairo: Egyptian Foreign Minister Bader Abdulatty discussed with his US counterpart, Marco Rubio, the latest developments in the Middle East, especially in Gaza. US State Department spokesperson Tammy Bruce said in a press statement that both officials reaffirmed the importance of the US-Egypt relationship, which includes strengthening regional security and stability.
According to Kuwait News Agency, Rubio expressed gratitude to Abdulatty for Egypt's mediation efforts in securing hostage releases, facilitating humanitarian aid deliveries across Gaza, and accepting medical evacuations. The US secretary emphasized the significance of close cooperation to advance post-conflict planning for the governance and security of Gaza, stating that "Hamas can never govern Gaza or threaten Israel again."
The discussions also addressed Syria's recent developments, highlighting the need for inclusive governance and preventing the country from being used as a base for terrorism or posing a threat to its neighbors. The talks extended to the situation in Sudan, focusing on pressing the belligerents to end hostilities and expand humanitarian access, as well as addressing Egypt's water security concerns.
Egypt has consistently rejected any attempts to annex land and displace Palestinians from Gaza and the West Bank. Recently, Arab and international reactions have mounted against US President Donald Trump's remarks regarding US control and ownership of Gaza and the resettlement of Palestinians outside the territory.