Egypt, US address ongoing regional war, Palestinian-Israeli cause, water security

CAIRO – 27 March 2026: Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, held a telephone call on Thursday, March 26, with US Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The two sides discussed ways to strengthen the strategic partnership between their countries, ongoing military escalation in the region and its spillover effects, as well as key regional issues, particularly the Palestinian cause, Sudan, Lebanon, and Egypt’s water security.

Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the ministers reviewed overall bilateral relations and praised the depth of the strategic partnership spanning more than four decades. They highlighted the shared interests that support regional security and stability and expressed their aspiration to further develop ties in a way that serves mutual benefit.

Regarding regional developments amid ongoing military escalation, the US Secretary of State expressed appreciation for Egypt’s leadership and its constructive role in mediation, de-escalation, and crisis containment. The call also addressed the broader economic repercussions of the conflict, including its impact on both the global and Egyptian economies.

Minister Abdelatty stressed the importance of providing economic support and liquidity to help mitigate the negative effects of the current escalation on Egypt, particularly in light of rising energy and food prices, as well as declining tourism and Suez Canal revenues. He reaffirmed Egypt’s position advocating for diplomatic solutions and the advancement of political processes through negotiations. In this context, he noted ongoing efforts by Egypt, Turkey, and Pakistan to promote de-escalation and encourage all parties to reduce tensions and end the war.

On the Palestinian issue, Abdelatty reviewed Egypt’s intensive efforts to ensure the implementation of all provisions of the second phase of the US President’s plan. This includes the deployment of an international stabilization force and the entry of a Gaza administrative committee into the Gaza Strip to begin operations, paving the way for the Palestinian Authority to fully resume its responsibilities.

He emphasized the need to intensify efforts to protect Palestinian civilians and to create conditions conducive to resuming a political process aimed at achieving a just and comprehensive settlement. The Foreign Minister also condemned attacks by Israeli settlers against Palestinian civilians and their property in the West Bank, stressing that such actions constitute a flagrant violation of international law and undermine prospects for peace.

The ministers also reviewed the latest developments in Sudan. The US Secretary of State expressed appreciation for Egypt’s role in supporting efforts toward a temporary humanitarian truce as a step toward a permanent ceasefire. Abdelatty emphasized the importance of launching a Sudanese-led political process to develop a comprehensive roadmap for building a new Sudan free from external interference. He also stressed respect for Sudan’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, and support for its national institutions, while commending US efforts within the framework of the Quartet.

Regarding Lebanon, Abdelatty briefed his American counterpart on the outcome of his visit to Beirut on March 26. He stressed the need for an immediate cessation of Israeli escalation and attacks on Lebanon, reiterating Egypt’s firm rejection of any violations of Lebanese sovereignty or targeting of civilian infrastructure. He underscored the importance of strengthening state institutions, fully implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701, and supporting Lebanon’s efforts to extend state authority over all its territory.

On water security, Abdelatty reiterated Egypt’s appreciation for the message sent by President Donald Trump to President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi and his efforts on this issue. He emphasized that the Nile River is the lifeline of the Egyptian people, who already face severe water scarcity, making water security an existential issue for Egypt.

He affirmed Egypt’s commitment to constructive cooperation with Nile Basin countries in accordance with international law and in a manner that serves shared interests. At the same time, he pointed to Ethiopia’s continued intransigence and firmly rejected any unilateral measures concerning the Nile, stressing its status as a transboundary river.

At the conclusion of the call, both sides agreed to continue coordination and consultation to further strengthen bilateral relations and support regional security and stability.