During the discussions, the focus was on the rapidly escalating Palestinian-Israeli conflict. The parties expressed deep concern about the massive escalation of hostilities that have led to a catastrophic increase in civilian casualties and a deepening humanitarian crisis in the Gaza Strip. They unanimously agreed on the need to immediately cease fire and to establish a humanitarian truce in order to provide urgent help to those in need.
The Russian President listened to the views and assessments provided by his counterparts who highlighted the severity of the humanitarian situation in Gaza and the need to lift the blockade in order to fast-track the delivery of medications, food and other essential supplies. Serious concerns were voiced about the possibility of the conflict evolving into a regional war.
In response, Vladimir Putin emphasised the unacceptability of using any form of violence against civilians and conveyed Russia's deep sympathy for all those affected and the families and friends of the people who have died in the hostilities and noted Russia’s readiness to provide humanitarian aid. The Russian side reaffirmed its commitment to coordinating efforts with all constructively-minded partners with an eye towards bringing the hostilities to an end and stabilising the situation. This aligns with Russia's submission to the UN Security Council of a draft resolution calling for an immediate, balanced and non-politicised ceasefire.
The parties agreed that the current unprecedented escalation is rooted in the prolonged stagnation in the Middle East peace process. In this context, Vladimir Putin reiterated his principled stance in favour of restarting the political process to achieve a lasting and fair resolution to the Palestinian issue on an established international legal basis which would provide for the creation of an independent Palestinian state coexisting in peace and security with Israel.
In a conversation with the President of Egypt, the issues related to facilitating the evacuation of Russian and CIS citizens from the Gaza Strip by Egypt were also touched upon.