CIA Director Burns Conducts Talks in Egypt and Somalia

CIA Director William Burns has recently embarked on a series of diplomatic engagements in the Middle East, addressing critical issues with leaders in Somalia and Egypt. In Somalia, Burns met with President Hassan Sheikh Mohamud to discuss security concerns, tensions with Ethiopia over a maritime agreement, and the ongoing fight against Al-Shabaab. Meanwhile, in Cairo, Burns engaged with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, emphasizing the importance of humanitarian aid in Gaza and the need for ceasefire negotiations amid escalating regional tensions, including in Lebanon. El-Sisi underscored the essential role of UNRWA in supporting Palestinian refugees and the urgency of resolving humanitarian crises in the region. Additionally, U.S. officials, including Burns, are set to visit Israel and Egypt to further discussions on Iran and hostage situations in Gaza. These high-level talks reflect ongoing efforts to stabilize the region amidst rising conflicts.