US President Joe Biden spoke on Monday with Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi over the telephone to discuss strengthening the Gaza ceasefire, urgent humanitarian aid to Gaza and international efforts to rebuild it, according to a statement from the Egyptian presidency. Biden and El-Sisi discussed "developments of the Palestinian cause and ways to revive the peace process after the recent developments," the statement added. According to a statement from the White House, Biden thanked Egypt for its successful diplomacy and coordination with the United States to end the recent hostilities in Israel and Gaza and ensure violence does not reoccur. The two leaders consulted on the urgent need to deliver humanitarian assistance to those in need in Gaza and to support rebuilding efforts in a manner that benefits the people there and not Hamas, the statement added. President Biden said he has asked Secretary of State Antony Blinken to visit the region for follow-up on these urgent needs. Regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam, President Biden acknowledged Egypt's concerns about access to Nile River waters and underscored the US interest in achieving a diplomatic resolution that meets the legitimate needs of Egypt, Sudan, and Ethiopia, the White House said in the statement. According to the statement, the two leaders also discussed their commitment to upholding Libyan plans for national elections in December and the removal of all foreign military and irregular forces from Libya. They also affirmed their support for the Iraqi government's efforts to strengthen Iraq's full sovereignty and independence. President Biden underscored the importance of a constructive dialogue on human rights in Egypt. The two leaders reaffirmed their commitment to a strong and productive US-Egypt partnership.
