Egypt ramps up support for Lebanon amid rising regional tensions

Egypt President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has pledged full support for Lebanon and directed the immediate deployment of aid to the country, following a phone call with Lebanese Prime Minister Najib Mikati.

The call comes as Lebanon faces heightened instability due to cross-border clashes between Hezbollah and Israel, against the backdrop of Israel’s ongoing military operations in Gaza.

Al-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s unwavering commitment to Lebanon’s security, sovereignty, and territorial integrity during these turbulent times. “Egypt stands by Lebanon during these critical circumstances and rejects any attempts to jeopardize its security, stability, or territorial integrity,” read a statement from the Egyptian presidency. Al-Sisi further stressed the urgent need for a comprehensive and permanent ceasefire in both Lebanon and Gaza, underlining Egypt’s role as a regional mediator.

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In a decisive move, the Egyptian president also ordered the immediate dispatch of emergency medical and relief aid to Lebanon. “This is a show of solidarity with the people of Lebanon,” the statement added, affirming Egypt’s continued support at all levels to help Lebanon navigate this crisis.

Al-Sisi issued a stark warning about the broader consequences of the ongoing conflict, particularly criticizing the international community’s failure to act decisively in stopping “aggressive practices towards the Palestinian territories and Lebanon.” He cautioned that this lack of intervention risks escalating the situation, potentially destabilizing not only the region but also global peace.

Lebanese Prime Minister Mikati expressed deep appreciation for Egypt’s swift and supportive response. He reviewed Lebanon’s diplomatic efforts to contain the escalating violence and praised Egypt’s role in restoring regional security.

The call follows weeks of intensifying cross-border fighting between Hezbollah and Israel, sparked by Israel’s military operations in Gaza, which have resulted in over 41,600 deaths, the majority of them women and children. The international community has raised concerns about the potential for the conflict to spread, warning that further escalation could plunge the Middle East into a full-scale regional war.

As Egypt steps up its efforts to aid Lebanon and push for a ceasefire, the international spotlight remains fixed on the ongoing violence and the urgent need for diplomatic solutions to prevent further destabilization.