Egyptian FM, Palestinian VP urge preserving territorial unity in Gaza, West Bank

Tents sheltering displaced Palestinians in western Gaza City on May 10, as reports indicate that Israeli forces have expanded their control over more than half of Gaza. Ahmed Al Arini/Middle East Images/AFP/Getty Images Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty and Palestinian Vice President Hussein Al-Sheikh stressed on Sunday, August 23, 2026, the importance of preserving the territorial unity of the Palestinian territories in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank and enabling the Palestinian Authority to assume its responsibilities. The two officials discussed the latest developments in the Palestinian territories during a phone call held as part of ongoing coordination. Abdelatty condemned Israel’s expansion of settlement activities, the escalating violence by settlers and violations in East Jerusalem and at Al-Aqsa Mosque. He reiterated Egypt’s categorical rejection of the settlement project in the “E1” area, warning that it threatens to divide the West Bank, encircle and isolate East Jerusalem, and undermine prospects for establishing an independent Palestinian state along the June 4, 1967 borders, with East Jerusalem as its capital. The talks also covered ongoing efforts to complete the commitments of the first phase of US President Donald Trump’s peace plan in accordance with the roadmap and move to the second phase. These efforts include ensuring the flow of humanitarian aid into Gaza and enabling the National Committee for the Administration of Gaza to begin carrying out its duties from within the Strip. Al Sheikh, for his part, praised Egypt’s support for the Palestinian cause and its efforts to uphold the legitimate rights of the Palestinian people, stressing the continuation of coordination and consultations during the coming period. Back to top button