Egypt’s foreign minister, US envoy discuss negotiations between Washington, Tehran

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty and US envoy Steve Witkoff discussed over the phone on Monday the path of negotiations between the US and Iran to end their conflict.

The discussions took up efforts to de-escalate tensions in the region and proposals to reach a mutually acceptable settlement between Washington and Tehran, the Egyptian Foreign Ministry said in a statement.

Abdelatty emphasized the importance of continuing negotiations to solidify the ceasefire between the two sides and work towards ending the war.

The foreign minister said that diplomatic solutions and dialogue “are the best way to enhance regional security and stability,” the statement said.

He also emphasized the need to address the security concerns of the Gulf states, the ministry said.

Abdelatty said Egypt will continue its intensive efforts, in coordination with regional and international partners, “to advance political solutions that support security and stability.”

Tehran and Washington held talks in the Pakistani capital, Islamabad, two weeks ago but failed to reach an agreement to end their conflict, which started after the US and Israel launched a joint offensive against Iran, killing more than 3,300 people. Tehran retaliated with strikes targeting Israel and countries hosting US assets.

The negotiations came after Pakistan brokered a two-week ceasefire on April 8, which was later extended by US President Donald Trump.

Though efforts for another round of talks are underway, some of the sticking points are said to be the Strait of Hormuz, the US blockade of Iranian ports, and Iran’s enriched uranium.

*Writing by Rania Abushamala in Istanbul.