German, Egyptian leaders discuss Gaza conflict

By Oliver Towfigh Nia

BERLIN (AA) – Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah al-Sisi voiced “great concern” over the escalating Israel-Hamas conflict, a government spokesman said on Monday.

During a phone call with German Chancellor Olaf Scholz on Sunday evening, the Egyptian president expressed concern over the events that affect the entire region, Steffen Hebestreit told journalists.

Meanwhile, a German Foreign Ministry spokesman hinted at indirect support for Israel’s total blockade of Gaza.

“There continues to be an ongoing terrorist attack against Israel. Of course, Israel has a right under international law to resist and defend itself against these terrorist attacks,” said Christian Wagner in response to a question on Germany’s reaction to Israel’s announcement of an all-out blockade of Gaza.

On Sunday, Germany expressed support for Egypt’s diplomatic efforts for a cease-fire between Israel and Palestinian groups.

“President al-Sisi is trying to mediate and de-escalate this difficult situation. We will gladly support Egypt in these efforts,” Scholz told reporters in Berlin.

The Gaza-based resistance group Hamas launched Operation Al-Aqsa Flood against Israel early Saturday, firing a barrage of rockets. It said the surprise attack was in response to the storming of Al-Aqsa Mosque in occupied East Jerusalem and increased settler violence.

In retaliation, the Israeli army launched Operation Swords of Iron against Hamas in the Gaza Strip, killing at least 560 Palestinians and wounding at least 2,900 others.

At least 800 Israelis have been killed and over 2,300 others wounded in the fighting, according to the Israeli Health Ministry.