Cairo: Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptian Expatriates Badr Abdelatty reiterated Egypt's keenness on enhancing its pivotal humanitarian role in the region, particularly in Gaza and Sudan. During his meeting on Tuesday, February 17, 2026, with President of the International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies Catherine Forbes, Abdelatty highlighted Egypt's efforts to establish a regional humanitarian hub aimed at strengthening responses to multiple crises across the region, including in Gaza, Sudan, and the Sahel. He welcomed cooperation with the federation to ensure the delivery of humanitarian aid to conflict-affected areas.
According to State Information Service Egypt, Abdelatty also referred to Egypt's efforts in hosting large numbers of refugees and migrants, providing them with services, and facilitating their integration into society. The minister stressed Egypt's commitment to continuing close cooperation with the federation and supporting its mission as the world's largest humanitarian network, which comprises 191 national societies. He also welcomed the signing of a headquarters agreement for the federation's regional office in Cairo to further boost cooperation and strengthen humanitarian work across the region.
Talks also tackled developments in the Gaza Strip, where Abdelatty underlined the urgent need to begin early recovery and reconstruction projects in line with the priorities and needs of the Palestinian people across the territory. He reviewed Egypt's ongoing efforts to deliver humanitarian assistance to Gaza residents, receive patients and the wounded along with their companions, especially following the reopening of the Rafah Crossing in both directions.
The minister reiterated the importance of removing all obstacles hindering aid delivery, particularly in light of the near collapse of the healthcare sector. He also stressed the need for the full implementation of the plan put forward by Donald Trump and UN Security Council Resolution 2803. He expressed hope for further coordination with the federation, through the Egyptian Red Crescent, to intensify humanitarian operations and send more assistance to Gaza, in addition to expanding capacity-building programs in disaster response and health emergencies.