Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, reaffirmed support for the Palestinian Authority’s governance role in Gaza during a meeting with Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa. They discussed the reconstruction of Gaza, the ongoing ceasefire, and preparations for an upcoming Arab summit, amid challenges posed by Hamas and Israeli military operations. The PA aims to assume full responsibility in Gaza and hold elections within the year.
On March 1, 2025, Egypt’s Foreign Minister, Badr Abdelatty, reconfirmed the nation’s support for the Palestinian Authority (PA) in its governance of Gaza, which is regarded as part of Palestinian territories alongside the West Bank and East Jerusalem. During a meeting in Cairo with Palestinian Prime Minister Mohammad Mustafa, they deliberated on significant developments concerning the Palestinian cause and the ongoing situation in Gaza.
Abdelatty underscored Egypt’s commitment to reinforcing the ceasefire in Gaza and emphasized the need to adhere to its provisions across three phases. The discussion also centered on the reconstruction of Gaza, stressing the necessity for Palestinians to remain on their land, and preparing for an emergency Arab summit scheduled for the upcoming Tuesday in Cairo.
Prime Minister Mustafa presented his views on the reconstruction efforts and the expected outcomes of the upcoming conference that Egypt will organize in collaboration with the United Nations. He also provided an assessment of the circumstances in the West Bank, where Israeli military operations have continued to escalate.
This meeting aligns with the expiration of the first phase of the ceasefire in Gaza, which halted over 15 months of conflict that has resulted in more than 48,000 fatalities. Negotiations are ongoing for the next phase, which aims to achieve a permanent cessation of hostilities and the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from the territory.
A critical aspect of the negotiations involves the governance of Gaza, particularly as Hamas, the ruling entity in the region, has refused to comply with Israeli demands for disarmament. In January, it was announced that the Palestinian Presidency, under President Mahmoud Abbas’s direction, had made preparations to assume full control over Gaza’s governance and border crossings.
Additionally, last month the Palestinian presidency unveiled a plan outlining the future of Palestinian territories post-war, which includes managing Gaza and necessitating elections in both Gaza and the West Bank. President Abbas is expected to present this plan at the upcoming emergency Arab summit in Cairo.
In conclusion, Egypt has reiterated its unwavering support for the Palestinian Authority’s governance in Gaza, highlighting key discussions on reconstruction and ceasefire efforts. The meeting reflects ongoing negotiations aimed at securing peace and stability, amidst continued developments in the broader Palestinian territories. The emphasis on holding elections also signifies a move towards strengthening governance under the Palestinian Authority, contingent on political circumstances.
Original Source: www.egypttoday.com