In first in 13 Years, Israel FM in Cairo for talks on ceasefire
Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi landed in Cairo on Sunday to meet with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry and to discuss a possible long-term ceasefire with the Hamas terror organization.
FM Gabi Ashkenazi received by deputy FM of Egypt. (MFA)
This is the first official visit by an Israeli foreign minister in Egypt in 13 years.
“During the visit, we will discuss regional issues as well as ways and means to strengthen our bilateral relations,” Ashkenazi stated upon his arrival.
“We will discuss establishing a permanent ceasefire with Hamas, a mechanism for providing humanitarian aid, and the reconstruction of Gaza with a pivotal role played by the international community,” he added.
The unconditional ceasefire between Israel and Hamas, brokered primarily by Egypt, went into effect on May 21 after 11 days of warfare. The situation in the area is still tense with Hamas already presenting demands and issuing threats about the resumption of the hostilities if Israel does not meet its demands.
Ashkenazi stated that “first and foremost, Israel is fully committed to returning our MIA’s held by the Hamas,” relating to the bodies of two IDF soldiers and another two civilians held by Hamas.
Israel is seeking a broader deal with Hamas, while the terror organization is reportedly opposed to a comprehensive long-term solution.
Several countries have pledged millions in aid to Gaza, and Israel, Egypt, the Palestinian Authority, and Hamas have to agree on a mechanism that will ensure that the funds are spent on reconstruction and rehabilitation and not on the rebuilding of its terror infrastructure destroyed by the IDF during Operation Guardian if the Walls.
