Egypt condemns escalating tensions in Iran, calls for restraint
In a statement issued by its Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Egypt affirmed its rejection of any violation of the United Nations Charter and international law, and stressed the utmost importance in respecting national sovereignty.
Egypt reiterated its warning about the dangers of the region sliding further into chaos and tension.
Its statement also highlighted that political solutions and diplomatic negotiations, rather than military action, are the only path to resolving this crisis and achieving a lasting settlement.
Egypt also renewed its call for an immediate halt to escalation, urging all parties to exercise restraint and prioritize dialogue to preserve civilian lives and safeguard the security and stability of the region.
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Taarek Refaat Egypt's Minister of Foreign Affairs and Immigration, Badr Abdel Aaty, lauded the Egyptian community in Senegal on Friday for their vital role in deepening ties between the two nations and for their active contributions to Senegalese society across various sectors. Speaking during a meeting with members of the Egyptian diaspora in Dakar as part of his official visit to the West African nation, Abdel Aaty commended the community's efforts in fostering bilateral cooperation and enhancing Egypt's presence in the region. The minister highlighted Egypt's ongoing commitment to modernizing its consular services and embracing digital transformation. He revealed that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Immigration is currently upgrading the technological infrastructure in embassies and consulates, aiming to deliver more efficient, user-friendly services through advanced online platforms. As part of these efforts, Abdel Aaty announced the launch of a new mechanism to accelerate the issuance of computerized birth certificates and highlighted a cooperation protocol recently signed with the National Postal Authority. The agreement aims to decentralize document authentication services by offering them through local post offices, especially in underserved and remote areas, to reduce congestion and simplify procedures. The minister also presented several initiatives the Egyptian government has introduced to support its expatriate population. These include the "Import Your Car" initiative, the military service settlement program, and the 'Your Home in Egypt' project in cooperation with the Ministry of Housing, which allocates ready-to-move-in residential units to Egyptians living abroad. Additionally, he underscored the ongoing collaboration with the Central Bank of Egypt to help expats open domestic bank accounts, thereby broadening their access to investment and financial services within their homeland. Abdel Aaty reiterated the ministry's dedication to maintaining open communication with Egyptian communities around the world. He confirmed that preparations are underway for the sixth edition of the Egyptians Abroad Conference, scheduled for August 3–4, 2025. The event will serve as a key platform for dialogue between diaspora members and senior Egyptian officials. 'This conference is essential in shaping policies that reflect the aspirations of Egyptians living overseas,' he said, emphasizing the importance of incorporating their perspectives into national development strategies. During the meeting, the minister welcomed questions and suggestions from community members, assuring them that the ministry is attentive to the challenges they face and is working closely with relevant authorities to address them. read more Gold prices rise, 21 Karat at EGP 3685 NATO's Role in Israeli-Palestinian Conflict US Expresses 'Strong Opposition' to New Turkish Military Operation in Syria Shoukry Meets Director-General of FAO Lavrov: confrontation bet. nuclear powers must be avoided News Iran Summons French Ambassador over Foreign Minister Remarks News Aboul Gheit Condemns Israeli Escalation in West Bank News Greek PM: Athens Plays Key Role in Improving Energy Security in Region News One Person Injured in Explosion at Ukrainian Embassy in Madrid News Israeli-Linked Hadassah Clinic in Moscow Treats Wounded Iranian IRGC Fighters Arts & Culture "Jurassic World Rebirth" Gets Streaming Date News China Launches Largest Ever Aircraft Carrier Videos & Features Tragedy Overshadows MC Alger Championship Celebration: One Fan Dead, 11 Injured After Stadium Fall Lifestyle Get to Know 2025 Eid Al Adha Prayer Times in Egypt Arts & Culture South Korean Actress Kang Seo-ha Dies at 31 after Cancer Battle Business Egyptian Pound Undervalued by 30%, Says Goldman Sachs Sports Get to Know 2025 WWE Evolution Results News "Tensions Escalate: Iran Probes Allegations of Indian Tech Collaboration with Israeli Intelligence" News Flights suspended at Port Sudan Airport after Drone Attacks
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UPDATED: Israel strikes on Syria draw global condemnation - Region
Israel's air strikes in the heart of the Syrian capital, Damascus, killing and wounding several people, sparked a wave of international condemnation, as world powers warned the attacks threaten regional stability. Defence Minister Israel Katz said Israeli forces struck near the entrance to the Syrian Ministry of Defence on Wednesday. Another strike hit near the presidential palace, on the outskirts of the city. A Syrian interior ministry source told AFP on Wednesday evening that Israeli strikes hit near Damascus, after the earlier raids in the capital that authorities said left three dead and more than 30 wounded. The latest bombardment hit "the vicinity of the Mazzeh (military) airport" in an area where munitions depots are located, the source said. Syrian Health Minister said Israeli aircraft obstructed the entry of a medical convoy into Suwayda by targeting all vehicles heading towards the area. The attacks on Syria's capital come amid continuing unrest in the city of Suwayda, where local Sunni Bedouin tribes have been engaged in fierce clashes in recent days with fighters from Syria's Druze minority, whom Israel views as a potential ally in Syria and claims to be intervening to protect. Damascus deployed its forces to the city on Tuesday and declared a ceasefire, but the fighting quickly resumed. Syria has strongly condemned, in the harshest terms, 'the treacherous Israeli aggression' that targeted government institutions and civilian facilities in both the capital, Damascus, and the governorate of Suwayda, describing it as a deliberate escalation and a violation of Syrian sovereignty and international law. In an official statement, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs said the assault was part of 'a deliberate policy pursued by the Israeli entity to inflame tensions, spread chaos and undermine security and stability in Syria,' and described the attacks as 'a blatant violation of the United Nations Charter and international humanitarian law.' Syria said it holds Israel 'fully responsible for this dangerous escalation and its consequences,' and affirmed that it 'retains all its legitimate rights to defend its land and people by all means permitted under international law.' The Foreign Ministry also called on the international community, 'foremost the United Nations Security Council,' to uphold its responsibilities and take 'urgent, concrete measures to put an end to Israel's repeated acts of aggression against the territory of a sovereign state and member of the United Nations.' Here is how the world is reacting to Israel's attacks on Damascus: United States Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the US was 'very concerned' about the escalation in violence. 'We're going to be working on that issue … I just got off the phone with the relevant parties. We're very concerned about it, and hopefully, we'll have some updates later today. But we're very concerned about it,' Rubio told reporters. EU The European Union called on Israel to immediately stop its strikes on Syria. "We urge Israel to immediately cease its strikes on Syrian territory, including on key institutions in Damascus, which jeopardise the lives of civilians and risk undermining Syria's transition," EU spokesperson Anouar El Anouni told AFP. Turkey Turkey's Ministry of Foreign Affairs condemned the attacks and said they were an attempt to sabotage Syria's efforts to achieve peace, stability and security, according to Al Jazeera. 'The Syrian people have a historic opportunity to live in peace and integrate with the world,' the ministry said. 'All stakeholders who support this opportunity should contribute to the Syrian government's efforts to restore peace.' Omer Celik, spokesperson for President Recep Tayyip Erdogan's governing AK Party, also condemned the attacks. 'Israel's attacks pose a security threat to the entire region and the world,' Celik wrote on X. GCC The Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) – comprising Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates – condemned the attacks in the 'strongest terms'. In a statement, GCC Secretary-General Jasem Mohamed Albudaiwi said the Israeli attacks were a 'flagrant violation' of Syria's sovereignty, 'a breach of international laws and norms, and a serious threat to regional security and stability'. Albudaiwi reiterated the GCC's support for Syria's territorial integrity, adding that the continuation of Israeli attacks constituted an 'irresponsible escalation' and disregarded international efforts to achieve stability in Syria and the region. Iran Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi also condemned the Israeli strikes, demanding an end to the "unhinged aggression". "The rabid Israeli regime knows no bounds... The world, including the region, must unite to end its unhinged aggression," Araghchi said on X, adding that Iran -- which fought a war with its arch enemy Israel last month -- "supports the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Syria, and will always stand with the Syrian people". Norway The Norwegian foreign minister said that Israel's recent strikes could undermine efforts towards a peaceful transition of power in Syria. 'Deeply concerned about recent Israeli airstrikes and rising domestic tensions. The escalation risks undermining efforts towards a peaceful, Syrian-owned transition,' Espen Barth Eide wrote on X. He said he was 'alarmed' by the 'escalating violence' in Syria and urged all actors to exercise 'maximum restraint'. Follow us on: Facebook Instagram Whatsapp Short link:
Egypt Independent
14-07-2025
- Egypt Independent
The UN's 80th anniversary: A call for urgent reform
This year, the UN celebrates its 80th anniversary, amidst a backdrop of escalating global geopolitical tensions and conflicts. This includes a massive military conflict between Russia and the West in Ukraine, deteriorating relations between the US and Russia, and a freeze on all arms control negotiations. Furthermore, relations between the US, the West in general, and China have moved beyond competition over trade and technology, shifting strongly towards strategic confrontation. War has spread across the Middle East, particularly in Libya, Sudan, Yemen, and Syria, compounded by Israel's inhumane genocide in Gaza. Israel also attacked Iran, igniting a dangerous new strategic conflict, and the United States exacerbated the situation by launching a highly sophisticated military raid on at least three Iranian nuclear sites. The United Nations, specifically established to prevent a third world war and the recurrence of massive human losses, was supposed to be the arena for resolving these issues. Blatant use of force Disturbingly, there has been a blatant and repeated use of force across the globe, directly contradicting the principles and provisions of the United Nations Charter. This aggression is often carried out by permanent members of the UN Security Council or their close allies, such as Israel, who appear to be immune from accountability. A prime example is America's vetoing of a draft resolution calling for a permanent and unconditional ceasefire in Gaza, the release of hostages, and the lifting of humanitarian restrictions. The credibility of the UN's political committees, especially the Security Council, has been severely damaged. It seemingly responds only when it serves the interests of the world's two most powerful nations. As the UN General Assembly convenes in the fall of 2025, it is anticipated that US President Donald Trump will deliver a fiery speech against the organization, accusing it of excessive spending and corruption, and demanding fundamental reforms. Despite its current struggles, I remain a strong supporter of the UN. Although clearly strained, it represents the best available platform for multilateralism in our current world. The UN currently boasts 193 members, with Palestine striving to become the 194th, signaling its ongoing relevance. It's clear that the vast majority of the international community currently prefers to reform relations between states within the UN platform rather than outside of it. However, many are simultaneously dissatisfied with the organization's current performance, strongly advocating for serious steps towards reform to enhance, not weaken, its effectiveness. Three key demands for reform Three core demands lie at the heart of calls for reform, both within the UN itself and its specialized agencies, as well as the Bretton Woods institutions: Expanding Membership : Increasing the number of members in various councils, such as the Security Council, to roughly 24 to 25 members, with the addition of at least two permanent seats for Africa. : Increasing the number of members in various councils, such as the Security Council, to roughly 24 to 25 members, with the addition of at least two permanent seats for Africa. Curbing Veto Abuse : Establishing arrangements to limit the misuse or overuse of the veto power, and implementing appropriate measures to prevent potential overreach by the General Assembly. : Establishing arrangements to limit the misuse or overuse of the veto power, and implementing appropriate measures to prevent potential overreach by the General Assembly. Fairer Decision-Making: Organizing decision-making processes more equitably by reducing the weighted votes of more developed nations, particularly within multilateral financial institutions. While attempts to curb the absolute power of the UN's permanent members might seem unrealistic, especially given the US stance, this overlooks the fact that the United States was actually a pioneer in proposing reforms in the past. In 1950, it put forward General Assembly Resolution 377, titled 'Uniting for Peace,' in an effort to bypass the Soviet veto, which was then obstructing the Security Council's efforts to defend South Korea against North Korea. The core of that resolution stipulates that the General Assembly has the right to convene an emergency special session if the Security Council fails to exercise its responsibilities. Indeed, over the past 80 years, the Security Council has repeatedly failed to make appropriate and fair decisions when its permanent members or their close allies are the subject of a resolution. As a result, both permanent and non-permanent members have suffered from the resulting deadlock. It is in everyone's interest to push forward the three reform demands mentioned above to revitalize these bodies and enhance their performance. The 'UN80 Initiative,' launched in March 2025, and the 'Pact for the Future and UN 2.0' aim to modernize the organization's work, priorities, and operations by directly responding to the financial crisis. This includes relocating some bodies from New York to less costly locations, such as Nairobi. The non-permanent members of the UN (the 'middle powers' from around the world) must form a coalition willing to adopt political, economic, and administrative reforms for intergovernmental organizations without bias or favoritism. They should firmly assert that working to reform and rectify multilateralism is essential to ensure its credibility. Therefore, the opportunity of the UN's 80th anniversary should be seized to take constructive steps toward achieving genuine reforms. Otherwise, future generations might view this anniversary as an ominous turning point where the organization descended into the abyss of lost credibility and political irrelevance. About the author: Nabil Fahmy is a distinguished Egyptian diplomat who previously served as the nation's Minister of Foreign Affairs. His extensive career includes a significant tenure as Egypt's Ambassador to the United States. In August 2009, he was appointed Dean of the School of Public Affairs at the American University in Cairo.
