Italy and Egypt coordinate on Gaza and Sudan crisis diplomacy

Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani and Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty conducted a comprehensive diplomatic discussion focused on resolving multiple regional crises during a phone call on Wednesday. The conversation centered on coordinated approaches to the conflicts in Gaza and Sudan, with both officials agreeing to convene the bilateral Joint Committee in Rome promptly to advance shared strategic interests.

Strengthening the Gaza Ceasefire Framework

The ministers examined the situation in the Gaza Strip following the recent UN Security Council adoption of a US-drafted resolution. Both European and Egyptian diplomats emphasized the importance of consolidating the current ceasefire and working systematically toward achieving a "lasting peace" by revitalizing the political process. This coordination between Italy and Egypt highlights ongoing international efforts to stabilize the region.

Urgent Call for Sudan Ceasefire and Aid

Regarding Sudan, where conflict between the national army and Rapid Support Forces has created a severe humanitarian disaster since April 2023, Tajani and Abdelatty stressed that a comprehensive ceasefire represents the essential first step toward restarting political negotiations and facilitating critical humanitarian access. The Italian minister also detailed the "Italy for Sudan" initiative, announcing that a humanitarian aid aircraft would soon depart for refugees in Port Sudan, with particular focus on children and coordination with local Christian organizations.

Regional Power Dynamics in Sudan

The devastating war in Sudan has killed thousands and displaced millions, creating one of the world's most severe humanitarian crises. The paramilitary Rapid Support Forces currently control all five states of the Darfur region in western Sudan, while the national army maintains authority over most of the remaining 13 states, including the capital Khartoum. This division complicates both conflict resolution and humanitarian assistance efforts in the strategically important Northeast African nation.