Following alleged accusations directed at Egypt last month regarding a proposal that differed from what mediators discussed about a ceasefire in Gaza, new details have emerged. U.S. lawmakers claimed that a stormy call took place between the Egyptian Ambassador to the U.S., Moataz Zahran, and several members of Congress. Many criticisms were directed at the ambassador, according to Axios.
Intense Anger
One member of Congress remarked that during the call, Zahran was asked about "the credibility of his country, which has been lost." The ambassador responded angrily to this accusation, questioning, "How can we lose our credibility if both Israel and Hamas are in Cairo to negotiate?"
High Tension
Another member revealed that the tense phone call witnessed strong defensive responses from the ambassador. A third legislator confirmed that the call was very tense, stating, "We were extremely clear with him and demanded that Egypt take responsibility." One lawmaker also informed the ambassador that "there is great frustration with the Egyptian government," according to his claim.
Accusations and Criticism
Recently, Egypt and Qatar, participating in the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, faced several accusations from pro-Israel members of Congress. A bipartisan group from the Republican and Democratic parties called on Cairo as recently as October to "acknowledge its responsibility for the humanitarian crisis" in the Palestinian sector, accusing it of closing the Rafah crossing. Egypt has repeatedly confirmed that the crossing is open, with hundreds of aid convoys having entered through it in recent months. However, Israel's control of the Palestinian side of the crossing since early May has complicated the matter of its opening. Additionally, Cairo was accused last month of offering a proposal regarding the Gaza truce that differed from what was discussed by mediators and Israel, which Egyptian authorities officially denied in full.
