ISTANBUL

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi said on Friday that his country is ready to mediate and promote political and diplomatic solutions to the current Middle East crisis, while also condemning Iranian attacks on several Arab countries.

Sisi made these remarks during a phone call from Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, according to a statement from the Egyptian presidency.

Sisi reaffirmed Egypt's "categorical condemnation and complete rejection" of Iranian strikes against Gulf countries, Jordan, and Iraq.

He emphasized that these countries did not support or participate in the war against Iran but rather contributed to de-escalation efforts and supported negotiations between Tehran and Washington aimed at finding a diplomatic solution.

Sisi also expressed Egypt’s hope to reinforce the principle of good neighborliness and called for an immediate halt to the attacks, warning that the escalation could undermine regional stability.

He emphasized Cairo’s readiness “to undertake every effort to mediate and prioritize political and diplomatic solutions to the current crisis.”

The Egyptian president also underlined the importance of respecting international law, the UN Charter, and the sovereignty of states, as well as non-interference in their internal affairs.

Pezeshkian expressed appreciation for Egypt’s efforts to reduce tensions, according to the statement.

The conflict began with Israeli and US strikes on Iran on Feb. 28, which killed hundreds, including then-Supreme Leader Ali Khamenei, prompting Iranian missile and drone retaliations targeting Israel and US interests in the region.

Iranian attacks on what it calls "US sites and interests" in Arab states have resulted in casualties and damage to civilian infrastructure, prompting condemnation from the countries involved.

*Writing by Mohammad Sio