Israeli foreign minister arrives in Cairo, first visit in 13 years

Israeli Foreign Minister Gabi Ashkenazi's tweet on May 30 about his arrival in Cairo. /@Gabi_Ashkenazi

Israeli Foreign MinisterGabi Ashkenazi said Sunday that he has arrived in Cairo, the first formal visit of an Israeli foreign minister in 13 years, to discuss regional issues with his Egyptian counterpart.

"We will discuss establishing a permanent ceasefire with #Hamas, a mechanism for providing humanitarian aid the reconstruction of #Gaza with a pivotal role played by the intl. community," said Ashkenazi on social media.

Egypt played a pivotal role in brokering a ceasefire earlier this month between the Israelis and Gaza's rulers Hamas, bringing an end to 11 days of fighting.

Senior Egyptian security officials confirmed to AFP Sunday that Hamas' leader Ismail Haniyeh would also be in Cairo for discussions but would not provide further details.

(With input from AFP)

(Cover: A general view of damaged houses which were destroyed by Israeli air strikes during the Israel-Hamas fighting, in Gaza Strip, May 23, 2021. /Reuters)