Egypt’s FM, UN Secretary-General discuss developments in Middle East

CAIRO – 27 March 2026: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Abroad Badr Abdelatty, received a phone call on Friday, March 27, from Mr. António Guterres, Secretary-General of the United Nations. The call addressed Egypt’s efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region, along with updates on key regional developments.

Ambassador Tamim Khallaf, the official spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the Secretary-General requested his sincere greetings and deep appreciation be conveyed to President Abdel Fattah El sisi. He commended Egypt’s prominent role in promoting regional security and stability and its efforts to contain tensions amid complex crises. He also praised Egypt’s steadfast commitment to the principles of the UN Charter and its continued efforts to advance international peace and security.

The Secretary-General expressed appreciation for Egypt’s mediation efforts, led by the President, as well as its ongoing coordination with Turkey and Pakistan to support direct negotiations between the United States and Iran. He affirmed the United Nations’ support for these initiatives aimed at reducing regional tensions.

The spokesperson added that the call included an exchange of assessments regarding the ongoing military escalation and its serious repercussions, particularly on freedom of navigation and global supply chains. These challenges directly impact food security, including the availability of fertilizers essential for agriculture, as well as energy security amid rising oil and energy prices.

The Foreign Minister welcomed the appointment of Mr. Jean Arnault as the Secretary-General’s Personal Envoy for the Middle East, expressing Egypt’s readiness to cooperate closely with him in efforts to de-escalate the conflict.

Regarding developments in the Palestinian issue, Minister Abdelatty  reviewed Egypt’s sustained efforts to implement all components of the second phase of the U.S. President’s plan. These include the deployment of an international stabilization force, enabling the Gaza administrative committee to begin its work in preparation for the Palestinian Authority to resume its responsibilities, as well as Egypt’s efforts to train Palestinian police and facilitate the operation of the Rafah crossing.

He also emphasized the need to intensify efforts to protect Palestinian civilians in the West Bank, highlighting ongoing attacks by Israeli settlers against civilians and their property. He stressed that such practices constitute a flagrant violation of international law and undermine prospects for peace.

Regarding Lebanon, Minister Abdelatty briefed the Secretary-General on the outcomes of his visit to Lebanon on March 26. He underscored the need for an immediate halt to escalation and Israeli attacks, reaffirming Egypt’s categorical rejection of any violation of Lebanon’s sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity, or targeting of civilian infrastructure. He also stressed the importance of strengthening state institutions, ensuring the full and non-selective implementation of Security Council Resolution 1701, and supporting the Lebanese state’s efforts to consolidate authority and sovereignty across its entire territory.