The Russian Foreign Ministry reported a phone conversation between Sergei Lavrov, the foreign minister of Russia, and Sameh Shoukry, Egypt’s foreign minister, about the Gaza Strip situation. The dialogue focused on the pressing need for restraint and civilian protection in the conflict area as described by the ministry’s official release. The two senior diplomats reaffirmed their shared view that violence against civilians is unacceptable and that attacks on homes and civilian infrastructure must stop immediately. This statement reflects a broad international appeal for safeguarding noncombatants amid ongoing hostilities.
According to the ministry, both sides agreed on a joint objective: a long term ceasefire combined with reliable humanitarian access to Gaza. They stressed the importance of continuous aid delivery to those in need and the prompt release of hostages. The diplomats highlighted that achieving a sustainable pause in fighting would enable relief operations to reach vulnerable communities more effectively and reduce human suffering in the region. Source attribution: Russian Foreign Ministry release.
The Russian side underscored the urgent need to organize the evacuation of Russian citizens from Palestinian territories with the involvement of Egyptian partners. This point reflects Moscow’s concern for the safety of its nationals and the practical steps required to ensure their welfare amid shifting security conditions on the ground.
Earlier remarks from the Russian ambassador to Israel, Anatoly Viktorov, indicated that Moscow was awaiting a clear signal from Egyptian authorities before proceeding with any evacuation of Russians from Gaza. The ambassador noted that coordination with Cairo would determine the timing and the method of any such move, emphasizing practical diplomacy in a rapidly changing setting. Source attribution: official statements from Moscow and the ambassador’s office.
Media coverage has also touched on access at the Rafah crossing, where reports described difficulties for the entry of Russian nationals from Gaza into Egypt. The Moskovsky Komsomolets article cited difficulties at the border while noting that other nationalities, including United Nations staff and citizens of Jordan, Moldova, Austria, and several African countries, were permitted through the crossing point. This reporting highlights the complex dynamics at border checkpoints during conflict and the varying conditions for international travelers in need of passage. Source attribution: Moskovsky Komsomolets report.
In another development, statements attributed to Hamas indicated a willingness to consider releasing foreign hostages when conditions permit. The comment underscores the fluid nature of negotiations and the array of factors that influence the timing of such steps in a highly volatile environment. Source attribution: Hamas public statements and subsequent reporting.