Kurt M. Campbell Deputy Secretary of State | Official Website
Secretary of State Antony J. Blinken held a conversation with Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty to address various issues concerning the Middle East. The dialogue included discussions on Lebanon's political situation, emphasizing the urgency for Lebanese leaders to resolve the presidential vacancy.
During the call, Secretary Blinken highlighted the United States' recent pledge of nearly $157 million in humanitarian aid to Lebanon. He reaffirmed U.S. support for Lebanese state institutions, notably the Lebanese Armed Forces, and stressed the importance of implementing UN Security Council Resolution 1701 to ensure civilians in Israel and Lebanon can safely return home.
The conversation also covered Egypt's role in mediating a ceasefire in Gaza aimed at securing hostage releases and its efforts toward resolving conflict in Sudan. Secretary Blinken expressed gratitude for Egypt's ongoing contributions in these areas.
Further discussions touched upon human rights improvements that Egypt could implement, following up on topics from last month's U.S.-Egypt Strategic Dialogue. Additionally, they talked about Egypt's water security concerns and the significance of the Nile River for Egyptians.
Spokesperson Matthew Miller attributed these details regarding Secretary Blinken’s engagement with Foreign Minister Abdelatty.
