LONDON: Italian Foreign Minister Antonio Tajani affirmed Italy and Egypt’s joint commitment to supporting all initiatives aimed at de-escalating the conflict between Palestinian Hamas Group and Israel on Sunday.
Min. @Antonio_Tajani talked with Egyptian FM Shoukry: “We support all initiatives for de-escalation and we are ready to facilitate humanitarian corridors for the release of prisoners held in Gaza, especially the most fragile starting with children, women and the elderly” https://t.co/Zek3U2gVOv
— Italy MFA (@ItalyMFA_int) October 8, 2023
In a statement on social media platform X, Tajani revealed his telephonic conversation with his Egyptian counterpart Sameh Shoukry, emphasizing their countries’ readiness to facilitate humanitarian corridors for the release of war prisoners held in Gaza.
Earlier today, Israeli airstrikes targeted housing blocks, tunnels, mosques, and residences in Gaza, resulting in the loss of over 370 innocent civilian lives, including children, women and elderly. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu vowed a robust response, declaring his commitment to “mighty vengeance for this black day.”
Italy Calls for End to Hostilities
Expressing the urgent need to prevent a new war, Tajani called upon international community to collaborate and facilitate an end to hostilities. Tajani also announced his upcoming visit to Egypt, where discussions on finding a peaceful solution will be a priority.
Regarding the safety of Italian citizens amidst the escalating conflict, Tajani assured that the Italian Embassy in Tel Aviv and the consulate in Jerusalem were closely monitoring the situation. Approximately 18,000 Italians with dual passports reside in Israel, along with around 500 temporary tourists and ten individuals in the Gaza Strip. He urged caution, advising Italians in the region to avoid unnecessary movement due to the perilous conditions.