They also discussed efforts to ensure the exchange of detainees between the Palestinian and Israeli sides as well as efforts to deliver aid to the Palestinians in the strip to put an end to their humanitarian suffering.

El-Sisi emphasized Egypt’s strenuous efforts in leading the provision, coordination, and entry of humanitarian aid to Gaza, despite challenging field circumstances, in coordination with UN agencies and other relief institutions.

The president underscored the pivotal role played by the United Nations Relief and Works Agency for Palestine Refugees in the Near East (UNRWA) in this regard.

El-Sisi stressed the need to implement relevant international and UN resolutions and take serious steps towards a fair and comprehensive settlement of the Palestinian cause to ensure sustainable stability in the region.

Blinken, for his part, affirmed the US's keenness to continue coordinating with Egypt to reach a settlement and protect the region from the further spread of the conflict.

The secretary of state praised Egypt’s efforts in supporting regional security and stability.

Blinken started earlier this week a new crisis tour of the Middle East, his fifth trip to the region since the beginning of the war in Gaza in early October.

He held talks with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman in Riyadh on Monday and is set to visit Qatar and Israel.

The US top envoy is coordinating a ceasefire deal proposed during a Paris meeting between intelligence officials from Egypt, the United States and Israel, and the Qatari prime minister. While Hamas and Israel have not refused the framework, which aims to ensure a prolonged ceasefire and detainee swap, they have not signed it yet.

Egypt has been leading efforts to deliver tens of thousands of humanitarian aid to Gaza, including contributions from the country’s NGOs and national institutions as well as from international relief agencies and world countries.

As part of its humanitarian role in the strip, Egypt continues to support UNRWA for its role in assisting millions of Palestinian refugees in Gaza and other areas, especially after the suspension of funding by the US and other major donors.