The discussions focused on the humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip and avenues to support UNRWA's activities within the region.
Egypt's Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry held talks on November 23 at the Ministry's headquarters with Philippe Lazzarini, the Commissioner-General of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestinian Refugees (UNRWA). The discussions focused on the humanitarian conditions in the Gaza Strip and avenues to support UNRWA's activities within the region.
Ahmed Abu Zeid, the official spokesperson and Director of General Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated that the UNRWA Commissioner-General expressed keen interest in hearing from Minister Shoukry about the outcomes of Egyptian diplomatic communications and actions regarding the Gaza crisis.
They particularly delved into the mechanisms for implementing the humanitarian ceasefire agreement mediated by Egypt, Qatar, and the United States. Minister Shoukry emphasized the necessity of building on this ceasefire to achieve a complete and unconditional cessation of hostilities in Gaza at the earliest, considering it the sole path to contain the dire humanitarian situation faced by Palestinians in Gaza.
In response, Philippe Lazzarini conveyed his profound appreciation for Egypt's role in brokering the ceasefire agreement, prisoner exchanges, and facilitating increased humanitarian aid access during the truce period. He highlighted the catastrophic humanitarian conditions in Gaza, acknowledging the considerable challenges UNRWA faces in maintaining its operations.
Minister Shoukry expressed Egypt's gratitude for UNRWA's vital role and the dedication of its personnel during the crisis. He pledged Egypt's ongoing support to ensure the agency can continue delivering essential services to the Palestinian people.
Addressing Israeli attacks on civilians and civilian structures, including those of UNRWA, Minister Shoukry strongly condemned the Israeli airstrikes. He underscored that such actions constitute a blatant violation of international law and humanitarian law, and a disregard for the status of international premises.
Abu Zeid concluded his statement by noting that discussions also covered the Arab and Islamic group's joint resolution project intended for presentation to the Security Council. Minister Shoukry emphasized the need for international parties to fulfill their responsibilities in ensuring sufficient and sustainable entry of aid to alleviate the humanitarian suffering endured by the Palestinian people.
