Egypt’s Sisi says Israeli bombardment in Gaza 'goes beyond right to self-defense'

By Ibrahim Al-Khazen

CAIRO, Egypt (AA) - Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi on Friday said Israeli bombardment of Gaza “goes beyond the right to self-defense,” and called for the revival of peace process between the Palestinians and Israelis.

“We must all take action to contain developments that may become uncontrollable regionally,” the Egyptian president said during discussions with visiting British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, state media reported.

Sisi mentioned civilian casualties in the besieged Palestinian enclave, saying “we all need to take action to so that the fighting does not cause the death of more civilians."

The Egyptian president also emphasized on the necessity of continuing the flow of aid to the Gaza Strip, including medical and humanitarian supplies.

He expressed his appreciation for the efforts made by US President Joe Biden and the UK to persuade Israel to allow the opening of the Rafah crossing.

But, he added, "there is a need for coordination and cooperation so that the region does not slide into war.”

“This will give hope to the Palestinians once again to establish their Palestinian state on the 1967 borders with East Jerusalem as its capital,” he said.

Speaking to Sunak, Sisi said: “I note your understanding of the importance of not allowing the displacement of civilians from Gaza to Sinai,” adding: “It is an extremely dangerous matter and may completely halt the Palestinian cause.”

Israel has bombed Gaza since the Oct. 7 surprise offensive by Hamas, and has put the entire enclave under a blockade, leaving 2.3 million residents with little food, water, fuel and medical supplies.

After meetings in Riyadh, Sunak reached Cairo "as part of wider efforts to prevent the spread of violence" following the Hamas attacks.

"All leaders must work together to avoid any regional escalation and ensure humanitarian aid reaches civilians in Gaza. The UK stands ready to help," he said in a statement earlier.

*Writing by Ikram Kouachi