AQABA: Jordanian King Abdullah and Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi on Wednesday emphasized the imperative need to increase international pressure to end Israel’s “aggression” against Gaza. The leaders, along with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, rejected any Israeli plans to separate the fate of Gaza from the Israeli-occupied West Bank, asserting that both territories constitute the foundation of a future Palestinian state.
The trilateral meeting in Aqaba served as a platform for the leaders to discuss the ongoing Israeli military escalation in the Gaza Strip. King Abdullah received President El-Sisi and President Abbas at the King Hussein International Airport in Aqaba, setting the stage for consultations on developments in Gaza and the situation in the West Bank.
In a palace statement, Jordanian King Abdullah and Egyptian President Abdel Fatah al-Sisi — who attended a three-way meeting with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas — said they rejected any Israeli plans to separate the fate of Gaza from the Israeli-occupied West Bank, adding the two territories were the basis of a future Palestinian state.
The three leaders rejected any efforts or proposals aimed at “liquidating the Palestinian cause”. Meanwhile, Sisi underscored that providing more aid to Palestinians in Gaza requires a “decisive stance” from the international community to push for a ceasefire, according to an Egyptian presidency statement.
Egypt, Jordan, and Palestinian Leaders Discuss Israeli Aggression on Gaza
President El-Sisi, who arrived in Aqaba on Wednesday, shared Egypt’s initiatives aimed at brokering a ceasefire, ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid, and outlining a vision for a just and comprehensive solution to the Palestinian issue.
The summit follows Monday’s expanded session of talks between El-Sisi and Abbas in Cairo, where discussions revolved around the Israeli military operations in Gaza, the unfolding humanitarian crisis, and escalating tensions and violence in the West Bank. Both leaders unequivocally rejected any attempts to sideline the Palestinian issue or forcibly displace Palestinians.
El-Sisi and Abbas emphasized the critical phase the Palestinian cause is entering, calling on the international community to work toward a just and comprehensive settlement. They envision the establishment of an independent Palestinian state along the borders of June 4, 1967, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The leaders urged collective efforts to address the pressing challenges and bring about a resolution that respects the rights and aspirations of the Palestinian people.
Earlier discussions between El-Sisi and King Abdullah in Cairo on December 27 focused on the humanitarian tragedy in Gaza and work towards a sustainable solution.
