Are Egyptian and French Leaders Collaborating on Gaza Ceasefire Mediation?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Sisi and Macron discussed mediation for Gaza ceasefire.
- Humanitarian aid delivery is a top priority.
- France plans to recognize the State of Palestine in September.
- Support for a French-Saudi initiative for peace talks.
- Ongoing violence has resulted in significant casualties in Gaza.
Cairo, July 27 (NationPress) Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi engaged in a conversation with his French counterpart, Emmanuel Macron, regarding mediation initiatives aimed at securing a ceasefire in the Gaza Strip, as reported by the Egyptian presidency.
During their discussion, both leaders highlighted the critical need to facilitate the provision of sufficient and suitable humanitarian assistance to the residents of Gaza, according to a report from Xinhua.
They also underscored the importance of achieving a fair and comprehensive resolution to the Palestinian issue in alignment with international legitimacy resolutions.
President Sisi expressed his appreciation for Macron's recent declaration of France's plans to officially recognize the State of Palestine during the forthcoming 80th session of the United Nations General Assembly set for September, noting that this decision is part of France's persistent efforts to realize a two-state solution.
Earlier on Thursday, Macron had announced that France would formally acknowledge the State of Palestine during the upcoming UN General Assembly.
President Sisi reiterated Egypt's backing for a French-Saudi initiative that seeks to organize a high-level international conference dedicated to the peaceful resolution of the Palestinian issue, which is scheduled to take place in New York later this month.
In response, Macron conveyed his country's unwavering support for Egypt's mediation attempts, as per the statement.
The ongoing Israeli military operations in Gaza since October 2023 have resulted in the deaths of over 59,000 Palestinians and left more than 143,000 injured, according to health authorities in Gaza.