Sisi Calls for Palestinian State, Diplomatic Solutions in Middle East Amid Complex Crises
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, visiting Denmark for the first time, emphasized the necessity of establishing a Palestinian state as a cornerstone for regional stability during a meeting with Danish Prime Minister Metta Frederiksen in Copenhagen on Saturday. Sisi, highlighting Egypt’s tireless efforts to halt the war in the Gaza Strip, stressed the need for comprehensive international cooperation to prevent the region from plunging into a larger conflict. He underscored the importance of establishing a sovereign Palestinian state along the lines of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital.
Sisi also drew attention to the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza, calling for unrestricted access to humanitarian aid.
During their discussions, Sisi and Frederiksen also addressed the need for a ceasefire agreement in Lebanon, with Sisi welcoming the recent truce and advocating for its influence in initiating a wider de-escalation phase throughout the region. This, he argued, should include the full implementation of Security Council Resolution No. 1701, allowing the Lebanese army to restore control over its entire territory.
The conversation broadened to encompass other pressing global issues, including developments in Sudan, Red Sea security, and the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. The leaders also acknowledged the complexities of the Syrian crisis, agreeing on the need to find diplomatic solutions to all these intertwined crises. They stressed the importance of protecting the sovereignty of nations, upholding the integrity of their institutions, and combating terrorism.
Their call for diplomatic solutions echoed the sentiments expressed by UN envoy to Syria, Geir Pedersen, who emphasized the constantly evolving situation in Syria and the urgent need for an orderly political transition. “I renew my call to contain the escalation, remain calm, avoid bloodshed, and protect civilians in line with international law,” Pedersen stated during his speech at the Doha Forum for Political Dialogue on Saturday.
What specific diplomatic solutions is Egypt proposing to overcome the challenges hindering the establishment of a Palestinian state?
## Sisi Calls for Palestinian State, Diplomatic Solutions in Middle East
**Host:** Welcome back to the program. Joining us today to discuss recent developments in the Middle East is Dr. Ahmed Khalil, Professor of Political Science at Cairo University. Dr. Khalil, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi recently called for the establishment of a Palestinian state during his visit to Denmark. Can you elaborate on the significance of this statement?
**Dr. Khalil:** Thank you for having me. President Sisi’s statement is significant on multiple levels. Firstly, it reiterates Egypt’s long-standing position as a staunch supporter of Palestinian self-determination. This stance has been unwavering even amidst complex regional dynamics. [[1](https://www.egypttoday.com/Article/1/136183/PM-Egypt-always-supports-establishment-of-Palestinian-State-cessation-of)]Secondly, by making this call during his visit to Denmark, President Sisi is emphasizing the need for international support for a two-state solution.
**Host:** You mentioned complex regional dynamics. What are some of the challenges hindering the establishment of a Palestinian state?
**Dr. Khalil:** The path towards a Palestinian state remains fraught with obstacles. Ongoing conflict, settlement expansion, and the lack of a unified Palestinian leadership are just some of the hurdles. However, President Sisi’s call for a diplomatic solution and his emphasis on halting the violence in Gaza offer a glimmer of hope. Egypt has been playing a pivotal role in mediating between Israel and Hamas, and its continued efforts are crucial for de-escalation and paving the way for any future negotiations.
**Host:**
Dr. Khalil, thank you for sharing your insights on this crucial issue. We’ll continue to follow developments in the region closely.