Amid increasing Israeli airstrikes across Lebanon and renewed attempts to negotiate a ceasefire, Egyptian Foreign Minister Bader Abdel Aty arrived in Beirut for a brief visit on Wednesday.

During his time in Lebanon, Abdel Aty held talks with senior Lebanese officials, including Parliament Speaker Nabih Berri, Caretaker Prime Minister Najib Mikati, Foreign Minister Abdallah Bou Habib, and Lebanese Armed Forces Commander General Joseph Aoun.

In his first meeting, Abdel Aty met with Speaker Berri at Ain al-Tineh, where he underscored Egypt’s solidarity with Lebanon and committed continued support in various forms, including medical, food, and humanitarian aid to address the country’s immediate needs. Abdel Aty emphasized that Egypt’s primary focus is to secure an unconditional ceasefire, saying that maintaining Lebanon's internal stability is essential.

During the meeting, Abdel Aty also addressed Lebanon’s prolonged presidential vacuum, stressing that the presidential election process must remain free from external interference.

“It is imperative that all Lebanese parties come together to reach a consensus on a candidate,” he stated, adding, “We will not accept linking the presidential election to the ceasefire.”

Additionally, Abdel Aty highlighted the critical role of the Lebanese Armed Forces in maintaining internal peace and unity, pledging Egypt’s full support for the institution. 

“We will not cease our support. We strongly condemn this aggression, and we are committed to exerting every possible form of pressure to halt the violence. Our near-daily contacts aim to put an end to the attacks and amplify pressure on Israel," Abdel Aty said.

Later, Abdel Aty met with General Joseph Aoun at the army’s headquarters in Yarze, joined by Egyptian Ambassador Alaa Moussa. Their discussions focused on Lebanon’s general situation in light of the escalating Israeli offensive, with Abdel Aty once again assuring Egypt’s backing for the Lebanese Armed Forces.

Both Berri and General Aoun, Commander of the Lebanese Armed Forces, assured the Egyptian diplomat of the army’s readiness to mobilize under U.N. Resolution 1701, which outlines terms for peace in the region.

In remarks following the day’s meetings, Abdel Aty emphasized Egypt’s steadfast support for Lebanon and pledged to provide ongoing assistance to help the Lebanese people navigate the current crisis.

“We are actively communicating with all international and regional parties,” he said. “We hold daily discussions with the United States, France, the European Union, and our Arab brothers, all of whom are committed to helping secure an end to this aggression.”