Egypt demands Israeli pullout from Gaza and Rafah crossing reopening in talks with US

Egypt has called for Israel's withdrawal from the Gaza Strip and the reopening of the Rafah border crossing. Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty presented these demands during discussions with visiting US Deputy Secretary of State Christopher Landau in Cairo.

Strategic Talks and Regional Focus

The two officials reviewed methods to enhance the strategic partnership between Egypt and the United States and explored avenues to develop bilateral political and economic ties. The talks also covered the latest developments in Gaza, Sudan, the Horn of Africa region, and Egypt's water security. Abdelatty welcomed Egypt's recent joining of the "Board of Peace," an initiative launched by US President Donald Trump aimed at promoting stability and governance in war zones.

Emphasis on Implementing the Gaza Plan

The Egyptian minister stressed the critical importance of fulfilling the obligations outlined in the second phase of the US-backed ceasefire plan for Gaza. He highlighted the need to support a proposed Palestinian national committee tasked with administering Gaza and the rapid deployment of an international stabilization force to oversee the ceasefire. Abdelatty underscored that reopening the Rafah crossing in both directions and securing a complete Israeli military withdrawal from Gaza were essential prerequisites for early recovery and reconstruction efforts.

Reports on Border Crossing Agreement

In related developments, Israel's Army Radio reported that Washington and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had reached an understanding regarding the reopening of the Rafah crossing. The Israeli news outlet Walla stated the vital passage for humanitarian aid into the besieged enclave is expected to open later this week. The ceasefire plan, which is the subject of the discussions, halted over two years of war that, since October 2023, has resulted in more than 71,000 fatalities—mostly women and children—and over 171,000 injuries.