Intel: US reaches out to Egypt over Israel-Palestine violence
The Egyptians may talk Hamas off the ledge, but both the Israeli prime minister and the Palestinian militants may stand to politically benefit from a prolonged conflict.
US national security adviser Jake Sullivan spoke to Egyptian government officials yesterday about the recent burst of violence between Israel and Palestinian militant groups in Gaza.
“They discussed steps to restore calm over the coming days and agreed to stay in close touch,” a statement by the US National Security Council read. It did not name the Egyptian officials.
The call came the same day as Sullivan spoke with Israel’s national security adviser Meir Ben Shabbat to condemn Hamas’ rocket attacks on Israel and pledge “unwavering support for Israel’s security and for its legitimate right to defend itself and its people, while protecting civilians.”
Why it matters: Egyptian officials typically negotiate cease-fires between Hamas and Israel.
