Russian, Egyptian foreign ministers discuss Gaza, need for ceasefire

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov discussed situation in the Gaza Strip during a phone call with the Egyptian counterpart on Thursday, the Russian ministry said. "The unacceptability of any violent actions against civilians, strikes on residential buildings and civilian infrastructure was noted," the ministry said. Both sides spoke in favour of an immediate ceasefire, sustained humanitarian access to Gaza and the release of the hostages.

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov discussed situation in the Gaza Strip during a phone call with the Egyptian counterpart on Thursday, the Russian ministry said. "The unacceptability of any violent actions against civilians, strikes on residential buildings and civilian infrastructure was noted," the ministry said.

Both sides spoke in favour of an immediate ceasefire, sustained humanitarian access to Gaza and the release of the hostages. "The Russian side stressed the urgent need to organise as soon as possible the evacuation of Russian citizens from that Palestinian enclave with the assistance of Egyptian partners."