Cairo: Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi discussed with his Iranian counterpart, Masoud Pezeshkian, efforts to halt military operations and return to the negotiating track. Presidential Spokesman Mohamed El-Shenawy stated that President Sisi received a phone call from President Pezeshkian to address these critical issues.
According to National Iraqi News Agency, the Egyptian president affirmed Egypt's categorical condemnation and absolute rejection of Iran's targeting of the Gulf states, Jordan, and Iraq. He highlighted that these countries have not supported the war against Iran nor participated in it, but rather contributed to de-escalation efforts and supported Iranian-American negotiations for a diplomatic resolution to the crisis.
President Sisi expressed Egypt's aspiration to uphold good neighborliness and to halt attacks immediately. He emphasized Egypt's regret over the current escalation and its concerns about the negative repercussions on regional stability and the well-being of its people. He reviewed Egyptian efforts to stop military operations and stressed the need for flexibility in returning to negotiations.
The Iranian president appreciated Egypt's efforts to de-escalate tensions, noting Iran's participation in negotiations concerning the Iranian nuclear program and its commitment to maintaining fraternal and neighborly relations with Arab states. The statement highlighted discussions on possible ways to end the escalation, with Egypt prepared to mediate and prioritize political and diplomatic solutions.
President Sisi stressed the importance of respecting international law and the UN Charter, as well as the sovereignty and territorial integrity of states, urging all parties to refrain from interfering in internal affairs.