CAIRO — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has called on the United States and Iran to take advantage of what he described as a critical opportunity to reduce tensions and avoid further escalation in the Middle East.
Sisi said diplomatic efforts should be prioritized as regional instability continues to raise concerns among international actors.
His remarks come amid conflicting signals over the status of indirect contacts between Washington and Tehran.
Former US President Donald Trump said he had halted planned airstrikes against Iran, citing what he described as progress in discussions and the possibility of reaching a deal within days.
Trump suggested that negotiations were moving in a positive direction, raising hopes of a rapid breakthrough.
However, Iranian officials said on Friday that talks had not yet reached a final stage and cautioned against expectations of an imminent agreement.
Tehran stressed that key issues remain unresolved, despite ongoing diplomatic engagement with international partners.
Sisi urged both sides to act responsibly and avoid steps that could further inflame regional tensions.
He emphasized that continued escalation would have wider consequences for stability across the Middle East.
Egypt has repeatedly positioned itself as a regional actor advocating for dialogue and de-escalation in conflicts affecting the region.
Analysts say Cairo is concerned that any direct confrontation between the United States and Iran could further destabilize already fragile regional dynamics.
The latest exchange of statements highlights continued uncertainty over the future of diplomatic efforts between Washington and Tehran.
Despite optimistic signals from some parties, significant differences remain on core issues under discussion.
The situation remains fluid, with no official confirmation of a breakthrough from either side.
