Egypt Denounces Claims of Voluntary Palestinian Displacement Amid Gaza Conflict

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty strongly condemned the idea that Palestinians' displacement amid the Gaza conflict is voluntary, calling such claims 'nonsense.' His remarks, made alongside Philippe Lazzarini of the UN agency for Palestinian refugees, came in response to Israel's urging of Gaza City residents to move south as its military advances deeper into the area. Abdelatty characterized the displacement as forced and part of a manmade crisis aimed at pushing Palestinians from their land, challenging Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's assertion that Palestinians have the right to choose where to live during wartime. Abdelatty also criticized Israel for hindering progress toward a ceasefire, despite ongoing diplomatic efforts involving Egypt and the US special envoy. Proposed ceasefire discussions include a 60-day halt to military operations and potential hostage and prisoner exchanges, but negotiations remain stalled with Israel seeking more favorable terms. Egypt maintains a key mediating role in efforts to resolve the Gaza conflict and alleviate the humanitarian crisis caused by the ongoing violence.