Ahmed Kamel – Egypt Daily News
Egypt has issued a strong warning to Israel regarding the continued expansion of its military operations in the Gaza Strip, cautioning that such actions risk deepening an already catastrophic humanitarian crisis and undermining ongoing diplomatic efforts for a ceasefire.
In a phone call with German Foreign Minister Johann Wadephul, Egypt’s Foreign Minister Badr Abdel Aaty expressed deep concern over worsening humanitarian conditions in Gaza, particularly mounting evidence pointing to widespread famine. Abdel Aaty stressed the need for the international community to take urgent action to halt what he described as Israel’s “blatant violations and crimes” against civilians, emphasizing Israel’s legal obligations under international law as the occupying power to ensure the flow of humanitarian and medical aid.
He updated his German counterpart on Cairo’s mediation efforts aimed at facilitating the delivery of aid to Gaza and disclosed ongoing preparations for an international conference in Egypt focused on early recovery and reconstruction in the war-torn enclave. The conference is expected to be held once a ceasefire agreement is reached.
Push for Ceasefire Implementation
Abdel Aaty also briefed Wadephul on the current status of ceasefire negotiations, noting that Hamas had recently agreed to a new proposal. He underscored the critical importance of Israel responding positively to the initiative, which he said is key to alleviating Palestinian suffering, facilitating meaningful aid delivery, and advancing regional stability.
“The continued expansion of Israeli military operations inside Gaza will only exacerbate the crisis,” warned Abdel Aaty, adding that Israel’s rejection of ceasefire proposals “undermines both regional and international peace efforts.”
For his part, German Foreign Minister Wadephul expressed appreciation for Egypt’s “tireless efforts” to mediate a ceasefire and facilitate the entry of humanitarian aid into Gaza. He affirmed Germany’s intention to participate in Egypt’s upcoming recovery and reconstruction conference and echoed Egypt’s concerns over the humanitarian catastrophe and the dangers of further Israeli military escalation.
Obstruction of Aid at Rafah Crossing
Meanwhile, Egypt continues to send humanitarian convoys to Gaza as part of the Zad Al-Ezzah (Provision of Dignity) initiative, organized by the Egyptian Red Crescent. According to Egyptian media outlet Cairo News Channel, the third convoy of the 20th aid mission departed over the weekend, loaded with essential food and medical supplies.
However, the Israeli military has reportedly obstructed aid delivery through the Rafah crossing, which remains a critical but heavily restricted gateway into southern Gaza. The delays have contributed to a dire humanitarian situation, with food, medicine, and fuel increasingly scarce.
Reports indicate that the aid includes staples such as flour, sugar, rice, cooking oil, and canned goods—items urgently needed by a population teetering on the brink of starvation.
Israeli Military Escalation and Global Backlash
Amid international calls for de-escalation, Israel is reportedly planning a large-scale reinforcement of its military presence in Gaza. According to Israeli media, the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) are set to increase the number of reserve troops deployed inside the Strip from 20,000 to 80,000, a move that reflects preparations for a wider ground operation.
Defense Minister Katz and the Israeli security cabinet have reportedly approved a plan to reoccupy Gaza City, a decision met with global alarm. IDF Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi confirmed that the plan includes boosting forces in northern Gaza as a prelude to what Israeli officials describe as “complete operational control” of the territory.
Part of the controversial strategy involves the mass displacement of approximately one million Palestinians from northern to southern Gaza, a tactic that has drawn sharp criticism from humanitarian organizations and foreign governments, who see it as a form of forced transfer.
Human Toll of the War
Since the outbreak of the war on October 7, 2023, the death toll in Gaza has continued to mount. As of August 17, 2025, more than 62,000 Palestinians have been killed and at least 156,000 injured, according to figures released by the Gaza Ministry of Health. These numbers do not account for those still buried under rubble or missing.
With Israeli military operations expanding and diplomatic efforts facing continued hurdles, Egypt’s warnings serve as a stark reminder of the growing urgency to prevent further humanitarian collapse and to restore the conditions necessary for peace and reconstruction in Gaza.
