Egypt urges US-Iran memorandum implementation to ease tensions

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stressed to US Special Envoy Steve Witkoff on Tuesday the importance of implementing the US-Iran memorandum of understanding and intensifying efforts to de-escalate regional tensions, according to the Egyptian Foreign Ministry.

Diplomatic efforts

The two officials discussed regional developments and efforts to contain the ongoing conflict during a phone conversation, the ministry said in a statement. Abdelatty described the US-Iran memorandum signed in mid-June as a constructive step toward easing tensions and strengthening security across the Middle East.

Freedom of navigation

The ministers also addressed the security and freedom of navigation along international waterways, with Abdelatty emphasizing the need to ensure safe and unrestricted shipping lanes. He underscored that freedom of navigation remains essential to global trade, supply chains and energy security, noting that international law must shield vital sea lanes from the impact of regional tensions.

Conflict background

The war began in late February when the US and Israel launched a surprise attack on Iran, prompting Tehran to retaliate against American military targets across the region. Washington and Tehran signed the memorandum in mid-June with Pakistani and Qatari mediation, though implementation stalled amid disputes concerning the Strait of Hormuz — a vital chokepoint for oil and gas shipments.

Last month, the US resumed military strikes against Iran after the agreement faltered, with Tehran responding by targeting US military assets stationed in several Arab states aligned with Washington. The conflict has killed thousands and displaced many more since hostilities began in February.