Egypt is taking a bold stance against Israeli actions affecting Palestinians, emphasizing the urgent need for resolution amid ongoing tensions. In a recent address at the 81st UN General Assembly in New York, Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly called for an immediate end to Israeli violations and rejected any attempts to forcibly relocate Palestinians from the Gaza Strip and occupied West Bank, including East Jerusalem.
Call for Ceasefire and Humanitarian Access
During his speech, Madbouly emphasized that a ceasefire in Gaza is essential and must be fully implemented. He urged a complete halt to Israeli actions seen as violations of international norms, stressing the necessity for the withdrawal of forces from occupied territories. He highlighted the importance of sustained humanitarian access, which is crucial for the ongoing recovery and reconstruction processes, as well as for initiating a political dialogue aimed at addressing the deep-rooted issues of the conflict.
“Peace cannot be established on the foundation of displacing a people from their land,” Madbouly stated definitively. He expressed concerns that true regional stability cannot be obtained while the suffering of Palestinians continues, labeling the situation as one requiring immediate and serious attention rather than mere management.
Support for Palestinian Statehood
Reiterating Egypt’s long-standing position, Madbouly affirmed support for an independent and sovereign Palestinian state that is geographically contiguous along the lines drawn before the conflict in June 1967, with East Jerusalem recognized as its capital. This call for Palestinian rights is part of Egypt’s broader advocacy for justice and stability in the region.
The Prime Minister also appealed to the international community to ensure the protection of civilians, to oppose collective punishment measures, and to uphold the principles of international humanitarian law. He believes these actions are vital for any meaningful progress toward peace.
Concerns Over Regional Security
On the topic of regional security, Madbouly conveyed that no nation can claim security at the expense of its neighbors, warning against hostile actions or threats that could jeopardize trade, shipping, and energy corridors. He underscored the importance of cooperative security frameworks in fostering regional stability.
Furthermore, he described Egypt’s water security as an “existential issue.” He warned against unilateral actions regarding shared water resources and the necessity for binding international agreements that protect each nation’s rights under international law. “The development of one party must not come at the expense of harming others,” he remarked, emphasizing Egypt’s commitment to safeguarding its vital water resources.
Pushing for UN Reform and Nuclear Disarmament
In closing, Madbouly reiterated Egypt’s support for Sudan’s integrity and state institutions amidst the ongoing conflict. He made a strong plea for comprehensive reform of the UN Security Council to rectify Africa’s underrepresentation within the global governance structure. Additionally, he called for the establishment of a Middle East free from nuclear arms and other forms of weapons of mass destruction, advocating for a more peaceful and stable regional environment.
The Prime Minister’s remarks serve as a reminder of Egypt’s dedicated role in championing peace and stability in the region, calling for collective action to address the pressing humanitarian crises faced by the Palestinian people and advocating for stronger international partnerships in fostering security and development.