Egypt, Israel FMs discuss solidifying ceasefire

A child looks at the damaged room of his family apartment after by Israeli airstrikes near a residential building, in Beit Lahiya, Gaza Strip, May 20, 2021. (Photo: Adel Hana/AP)
A child looks at the damaged room of his family apartment after by Israeli airstrikes near a residential building, in Beit Lahiya, Gaza Strip, May 20, 2021. (Photo: Adel Hana/AP)

Egypt Foreign Minister Sameh Shukry has spoken with his Israeli counterpart, Gabi Ashkenazi, about stabilizing the Cairo-brokered Gaza ceasefire deal.

A statement by Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said the two diplomats on Friday discussed shoring up the deal, which has mostly brought a halt to fighting between Israel and the Palestinians. They hope that will facilitate the reconstruction of Gaza.

The statement said the ministers also agreed on the importance of coordination between the two nations, the Palestinian Authority and international partners on securing communication channels to achieve peace. It did not provide further details.

The Egyptian government, meanwhile, said it would send a 130-truck convoy carrying humanitarian aid and medical supplies to Gaza, according the presidency.

The convoy is expected to enter the territory Saturday.