El-Sisi, Macron urge intensified global efforts to spare Middle East further tensions

CAIRO – 8 March 2026: President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and French President Emmanuel Macron stressed the need for intensified regional and global efforts to contain the ongoing escalation in the Middle East as they held a phone call on Sunday.

The two leaders held discussions on the ongoing war in Iran and its repercussions, the ceasefire in Gaza, and the developments in Lebanon, underscoring the necessity to settle crises through peaceful means.

They called for intensified global and regional efforts to spare the Middle East further tensions and instability.

El-Sisi expressed deep concern over the continued war in Iran, warning of its repercussions, including an increase in global energy prices and disruption of supply chains as well as air and maritime transport.

He warned of the impact of these repercussions on Egypt, the region and the world.

Moreover, El-Sisi condemned Iranian attacks on Arab countries at a time when Gulf countries and other regional actors have been working to de-escalate tensions and pursue a diplomatic solution to Iran’s nuclear file.

Gaza Ceasefire

The presidents stressed the need for full implementation of the ceasefire agreement in Gaza and ensuring the uninterrupted delivery of sufficient humanitarian aid.

They also emphasized the importance of initiating early recovery and reconstruction efforts in the enclave, while reaffirming their rejection of any attempts to displace Palestinians from their land.

Lebanon Escalation

The discussion highlighted the importance of coordinated efforts, particularly among the Quintet of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, United States, and France, to prevent full-scale escalation in Lebanon amid ongoing developments.

The leaders affirmed the need to halt attacks on Lebanon and its infrastructure, and continue supporting the Lebanese state and its institutions, foremost among them the Lebanese army, enabling it to fulfill its responsibilities in line with recent decisions to centralize weapons under state control.

Egypt’s Role

Macron expressed his deep appreciation for Egypt’s efforts to contain the current crisis and reiterated France’s commitment to the rapid restoration of peace and stability in the region.

The leaders agreed to continue close consultations on regional issues and ongoing crises.

Bilateral Relations

The call also addressed the distinguished bilateral relations between Egypt and France.

The Egyptian president praised the remarkable progress in ties since the announcement of the strategic partnership during Macron’s visit to Cairo in April 2025, expressing Egypt’s desire to deepen the partnership to serve the interests of both peoples.

Macron, in turn, welcomed the fruitful cooperation across various fields and underlined the importance of continuing to activate the strategic partnership declaration.

The leaders also discussed ways to enhance joint cooperation in trade, investment, industry, transport, and education.