Photographs of an Israeli vessel flying both Israeli and Egyptian flags during its transit on the Suez Canal on 2 November, have drawn sharp online criticism, exposing tensions between fulfilling international legal obligations and addressing widespread public sentiment in solidarity with Palestine. Egypt, a Palestine supporter and key player in Gaza ceasefire discussions, condemned Israel’s seizure of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees (UNRWA) headquarters in Jerusalem, describing it as a violation of international law and an impediment to humanitarian efforts. Additionally, Egypt criticized Israel’s withdrawal from the 1967 agreement that permits UNRWA to operate within its borders, emphasizing the agency’s essential role in aiding Palestinian refugees on 5 November. Most recently, on 12 November, Egypt denounced remarks by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich on plans to annex parts of the West Bank, warning that such actions undermine peace efforts and perpetuates regional conflict. Egypt has also opposed the forced displacement of Palestinians, advocating for their right to remain on their land. These positions were underscored in discussions with U.S. officials on 30 August, where Egypt called for immediate efforts to ease the humanitarian crisis in…
Why Israeli Ship Passage Through Egypt’s Suez Canal Sparked Renewed Outcry Amid Regional Backlash
November 18, 2024
