Cairo Conference Calls For Enhanced Humanitarian Aid And Safe Access In Gaza Amid Ongoing Crisis

The Cairo Ministerial Conference for Emergency Humanitarian Response to Gaza concluded with a strong commitment to boosting humanitarian aid and ensuring its safe distribution throughout the Gaza Strip. The conference stressed the urgent need for immediate assistance and the creation of conditions that allow effective delivery to civilians in need.

Hosted by Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the event saw participation from various countries, international organisations, and humanitarian agencies. It highlighted the crucial role of the United Nations and its specialised agencies in supporting Gaza during its ongoing crisis. Their efforts were recognised as heroic.

The final statement from the conference underscored the importance of early recovery initiatives. These efforts are seen as laying the groundwork for long-term reconstruction projects led by the Palestinian government, with backing from the UN and international community. The statement also emphasised support for these initiatives.

Additionally, it highlighted the essential role of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA). The agency is vital in providing life-saving supplies and services. Adequate funding and support were called for to sustain its critical operations.

Delegates expressed condolences for lives lost during the ongoing conflict. They reiterated the necessity of mechanisms to ensure safety and mobility for humanitarian workers in Gaza. Concerns were raised about the dire humanitarian situation, noting that Gaza lacks safe zones.

Violations of international humanitarian law and UN Security Council resolutions were condemned. There were calls for adequate humanitarian access and a sustainable ceasefire to address these issues effectively.

Egypt’s Support for Palestinian Rights

The statement reaffirmed Egypt’s unwavering support for Palestinians' legitimate struggle for their rights, including self-determination. It advocated for an independent Palestinian state along 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital.

Egypt urged Israel to respect its obligations under international law as an occupying power. It also vowed to continue efforts towards achieving a lasting ceasefire and securing detainee releases.

With inputs from WAM