In a notable diplomatic move Abbas Araghchi‚ Irans foreign minister arrived in Cairo on 10/17/24. This marked the first visit by a high-ranking Iranian official to Egypt in roughly ten years.
Araghchi met with Badr Abdelatty‚ his Egyptian counterpart and Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi‚ the Egyptian President. Their discussions centered on reducing tensions in Gaza and Lebanon – areas currently facing conflicts with Israel.
El-Sissi stressed the need to stop Israels war in Gaza warning that its expansion could have serious consequences for regional security. He also called for an end to:
- Escalation in Lebanon
- Violations in the West Bank
- Obstacles to humanitarian aid delivery
Araghchis Egypt visit is part of a broader diplomatic tour in the region. Heʼs already been to Syria Lebanon Qatar Oman and Iraq with Turkey next on his itinerary. This tour comes as the region braces for a potential Israeli response to Irans missile attack about two weeks ago.
In Amman Araghchi met with Ayman al-Safdi‚ Jordans foreign minister to discuss regional stability “in light of Israeli regimes continuing atrocity and aggression in Gaza and against Lebanon“ according to Irans foreign ministry spokesperson.
Just two days earlier Mohamed bin Salman‚ Saudi Crown Prince and El-Sissi met to discuss the situation in Lebanon and Gaza. They agreed that establishing an independent Palestinian state is crucial for achieving a lasting ceasefire peace and security in the region.
The Saudi and Egyptian leaders called for de-escalation including a ceasefire in Gaza and Lebanon. They also emphasized the importance of respecting Lebanons sovereignty security stability and territorial integrity