CAIRO – 6 March 2026: Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty, Minister of International Cooperation and Egyptians Abroad, held a telephone conversation with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio on Thursday evening. The discussion focused on the strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States and addressed several pressing regional concerns.
The two ministers exchanged views on the latest developments in the region, specifically the current escalation and the widening scope of conflict. Their conversation covered a broad range of regional issues, including the situations in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank, Sudan, and the Horn of Africa, as well as the critical matter of Egyptian water security.
Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the ministers reviewed the dangerous regional escalation.
Minister Abdelatty emphasized Egypt's unwavering position in advocating for political and diplomatic solutions to prevent the region from sliding into a "vicious cycle of conflict and violence," noting that such an outcome would have dire consequences for the region’s people and resources.
The Foreign Minister reiterated Egypt's condemnation and complete rejection of attacks targeting the Gulf States, Jordan, Iraq, Turkey, and Azerbaijan. He stressed that there is no justification or pretext for these violations of the security and sovereignty of brotherly and friendly nations.
Furthermore, he warned of the catastrophic repercussions of a continued cycle of violence, which threatens both regional and international peace and security. He underscored the importance of intensifying international coordination to maintain regional stability and protect the security of international navigation.
Regarding the Gaza Strip, the call followed the first meeting of the Peace Council held in Washington on February 19. Minister Abdelatty affirmed Egypt's commitment to expediting the second phase of the US President's peace plan. This includes providing full support to the National Committee for the Administration of the Gaza Strip and the deployment of an International Stabilization Force to ensure adherence to the ceasefire.
These steps are considered essential to paving the way for early recovery and reconstruction efforts, alongside the continued flow of humanitarian aid to all areas of the Strip.
Turning to the Horn of Africa, Minister Abdelatty stressed the importance of preserving the security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of both Eritrea and Somalia. He explicitly rejected any recognition of "Somaliland," describing such a move as a violation of international law and an infringement on Somali sovereignty. He warned that such actions could destabilize the region and the Red Sea corridor.
On the issue of water security, Minister Abdelatty expressed appreciation for the efforts of President Donald Trump to consolidate regional peace. He emphasized that the Nile River is the "lifeblood" of the Egyptian people, particularly as the country faces severe water scarcity.
He stressed that Egypt's approach is based on serious cooperation with Nile Basin countries in accordance with international law, while categorically rejecting any unilateral actions concerning the transboundary river.
Regarding the crisis in Sudan, the Foreign Minister emphasized the need to respect Sudan's sovereignty and unity while supporting its national institutions. He commended US efforts within the "Quartet" framework and expressed hope for continued coordination to create a conducive environment for resuming a comprehensive political process.
On Lebanon, Minister Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's rejection of any infringement on Lebanese sovereignty. He called for the full, non-selective implementation of UN Security Council Resolution 1701 and the cessation of all Israeli violations. He affirmed Egypt’s support for the Lebanese state's efforts to extend its authority over all its territory.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio praised the strong bilateral relations and the mutual benefits of the US-Egypt strategic partnership. He also commended Egypt's role in supporting regional stability and its humanitarian efforts in facilitating the evacuation of foreign citizens through Egyptian territory.
The two ministers agreed to maintain close consultations and coordination in the coming period to support regional and international security and stability.
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