Egypt has initiated calls for immediate negotiations on the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, anticipating considerable challenges, particularly after Israel halted aid to Gaza. Four Palestinian fatalities were reported on Sunday, intensifying concerns over violence in the region. A reconstruction plan has been prepared for presentation at an emergency Arab summit scheduled for Tuesday in Cairo.
Egypt is urging immediate negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire agreement, acknowledging the anticipated difficulties ahead. Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty expressed concerns that the agreement could collapse, particularly with Israel’s recent suspension of aid and continued attacks on Gaza. Speaking during a press conference in Cairo with EU Commissioner Dubravka Šuica, he highlighted the first phase’s success despite challenges, emphasizing the need for all parties to adhere to the agreement fully.
Abdelatty reiterated the importance of goodwill and political commitment to enable progress toward implementing the second phase, which is essential for achieving a sustainable ceasefire. He called on the European Union to increase pressure on Israel to comply with the ceasefire arranged since January the previous year. He condemned Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s actions of withholding aid as unjustifiable collective punishment.
In addition to the negotiations, Egypt has finalized a reconstruction plan for Gaza that will be presented at an emergency Arab summit scheduled for Tuesday in Cairo. Abdelatty underscored the necessity for summit approval before submitting the plan to any international partners. Furthermore, the Organization of Islamic Cooperation’s foreign ministers will convene in Saudi Arabia following the Arab summit to discuss further steps.
On a related note, violent clashes in Gaza resulted in the deaths of four Palestinians and injuries to six others due to Israeli fire on Sunday. The total casualties have now reached 116 fatalities and over 490 injuries since the ceasefire was initially established. The Gaza Ministry of Health reported that the latest casualties included victims of drone strikes and tank shelling in various locations across the Strip, pointing to ongoing hostilities despite the ceasefire agreement.
In summary, Egypt is calling for urgent negotiations for the second phase of the Gaza ceasefire, foreseeing challenges ahead amidst concerns of aid disruptions from Israel. The Foreign Minister stresses the necessity of goodwill for a sustainable ceasefire and advocates for international pressure on Israel. Concurrently, four Palestinians were reported killed due to ongoing Israeli attacks, highlighting the fragile situation in Gaza as reconstruction plans are underway awaiting approval at the upcoming Arab summit.
Original Source: www.palestinechronicle.com
