Under the bleak circumstances enveloping the region, on account of Israel's all-out aggression against the Palestinians and the Lebanese, and given the major powers' inertia in respect of ending the violence, Egypt initiated a move based on an objective assessment of the situation. Cairo seeks a practical end to the Israeli aggression. Meanwhile, it strives to solve pending differences and disputes by means of negotiations whether directly or indirectly. The main goal here is to end the aggression and help Lebanon restore calm, security and control over its entire territories.

This has been Egypt's stance since Day One of the crisis, triggered by Hezbollah's military operation. Egyptians have begged to differ with the Americans on the issue. The difference has come across clearly in the statement made by Foreign Minister Ahmad Abul-Gheit at the joint press conference held with his US counterpart.

Also in this context came the lightening visit of President Mubarak to Saudi Arabia for talks with the Saudi Monarch to develop a clear Arab vision.

Ibrahim Nafei
Al Ahram
July 26, 2006