Ashraf AboArafe
Cairo, 2 June 2025 — Egypt’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and Emigration, Dr. Badr Abdel Aaty, held political consultations on Monday with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi, who is visiting Cairo as part of ongoing regional diplomatic engagement.
According to Ambassador Tamim Khalaf, spokesperson for the Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, the talks covered bilateral relations and a wide range of regional issues, including developments in Gaza, Syria, and Lebanon, the security of Red Sea navigation, and the ongoing U.S.-Iran nuclear negotiations.
Gaza: Renewed Push for Ceasefire and International Recognition
Minister Abdel Aaty reviewed Egypt’s intensive efforts, in cooperation with Qatar and the United States, to restore the ceasefire in Gaza, ensure the flow of humanitarian aid, and galvanize international support for the recognition of a Palestinian state based on the two-state solution.
Lebanon: Upholding Sovereignty and Implementing UN Resolution 1701
On Lebanon, Abdel Aaty reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for the Lebanese state and its institutions, emphasizing rejection of any infringement on its sovereignty. He stressed the urgent need to fully implement the cessation of hostilities and secure the complete withdrawal of Israeli forces from southern Lebanon in accordance with UN Security Council Resolution 1701.
Syria: Support for a Comprehensive Political Settlement
Regarding Syria, the Egyptian minister underscored his country’s commitment to the unity, sovereignty, and territorial integrity of Syria, emphasizing the importance of launching an inclusive political process that brings together all components of Syrian society to overcome the current crisis.
Red Sea: Ensuring Maritime Security and Regional Calm
The consultations also addressed developments in the Red Sea region. Abdel Aaty emphasized the imperative of safeguarding freedom of navigation and welcomed the anticipated positive outcomes of the recent U.S.-brokered agreement in Yemen for maritime security and international trade routes.
Nuclear Talks: Cautious Optimism for Peaceful Settlement
According to the spokesperson, Minister Abdel Aaty listened to Minister Araghchi’s assessment of the five rounds of negotiations between Iran and the United States concerning Tehran’s nuclear program. He expressed hope that these talks would lead to a peaceful, comprehensive, and sustainable settlement that would ease regional tensions and avert escalation.
