Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty announced Wednesday that he held separate telephone discussions with Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi and Steve Witkoff, the U.S. President’s Special Envoy for the Middle East.

According to Egypt’s Foreign Ministry, the calls focused on the escalating regional tensions and the urgent need to return to the negotiating table. Abdelatty underscored Egypt’s position that diplomatic engagement remains the only viable path toward achieving a comprehensive and sustainable resolution to the long-standing nuclear dispute.

“The minister emphasized the necessity of an immediate ceasefire and the restoration of diplomatic channels,” the statement said, highlighting Egypt’s deepening concern over the potential for broader conflict in the region.

Abdelatty’s outreach reflects Egypt’s increasing role as a mediator amid the heightened confrontation between Iran and Western powers, particularly following recent Israeli attacks on Iranian territory and intensifying rhetoric from Washington.

Egypt has long advocated for non-proliferation and regional security and continues to position itself as a stabilizing force committed to multilateral diplomacy and the peaceful resolution of disputes.

The timing of the calls comes as world powers seek to revive nuclear negotiations and prevent a further deterioration of regional stability. Egypt’s engagement with both Tehran and Washington is seen as part of broader international efforts to de-escalate rising hostilities and avoid a possible military confrontation.

No further details were released regarding the outcomes of the discussions, but diplomatic sources described the exchanges as “constructive and ongoing.” (ILKHA)