What Are the Latest Developments Discussed by the Egyptian and Palestinian PMs?

Synopsis
Key Takeaways
- Egypt reaffirms its support for the Palestinian cause.
- Importance of self-determination for Palestinians emphasized.
- Need for international cooperation in resolving the conflict.
- Stalled ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel.
- Significant civilian casualties reported in Gaza.
Cairo, Aug 18 (NationPress) Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly and his Palestinian counterpart Mohammad Mustafa engaged in discussions regarding the latest happenings in the Palestinian territories.
In a meeting held in Egypt's New Alamein city on Sunday, Madbouly reiterated Egypt's steadfast support for the Palestinian cause, committing to provide all possible aid to bring an end to the conflict in Gaza, as reported by Xinhua news agency.
He emphasized Egypt's backing of the Palestinian people's right to self-determination, advocating for the establishment of an independent Palestinian state based on the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem designated as its capital.
Madbouly expressed Egypt's firm opposition to any efforts or plans aimed at displacing Palestinians from their homeland, undermining the Palestinian cause, or continuing the demolition of homes and the expansion of settlements within the Palestinian territories.
The Egyptian Prime Minister also highlighted the necessity of executing the outcomes from the high-level international conference aimed at achieving a peaceful resolution to the Palestinian question, which took place in New York on July 28, co-chaired by Saudi Arabia and France.
In response, the Palestinian Prime Minister acknowledged that the Arab-Islamic plan underscores that reconstruction is achievable without displacing the Palestinian population.
Mustafa urged for increased international coordination and dialogue regarding the Palestinian issue, expressing appreciation towards Egypt for its substantial efforts in supporting the Gaza Strip.
Meanwhile, indirect ceasefire negotiations between Hamas and Israel have reached a standstill, despite ongoing mediation efforts from Egypt, Qatar, and the US to facilitate discussions and halt the conflict in Gaza.
On Sunday, Israeli military chief Eyal Zamir announced that the army is set to commence a new offensive aimed at seizing control of Gaza City, the largest urban area in the Gaza Strip, despite international warnings about the dire consequences for the already devastated region.
This statement followed Israel's announcement regarding plans to relocate residents from Gaza City.
As per the statistics from Gaza's health authorities, at least 61,944 Palestinians have lost their lives and 155,886 have been injured due to Israeli strikes and gunfire since October 7, 2023, when Hamas-led forces initiated a deadly offensive against Israel.