On April 8, 2024, French President Emmanuel Macron visited al-Arish, Egypt, near the Gaza border, to advocate for the renewed delivery of humanitarian aid. The visit underscores international concerns regarding humanitarian access to Gaza.
Macron met with Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi and Jordan's King Abdullah II in Cairo, issuing a joint statement calling for an immediate ceasefire to protect Palestinians and ensure the swift delivery of humanitarian aid. The leaders also discussed these concerns with then US President Donald Trump.
The visit included meetings with injured Palestinians and representatives from NGOs and UN agencies at Red Crescent warehouses. Macron emphasized the need to reopen crossing points for humanitarian freight into Gaza.
The visit occurs amidst a dire humanitarian situation, with reports indicating that over 400 humanitarian workers, including many from UNRWA, have been killed in Gaza since October 2023.
Macron's visit and the trilateral summit highlight the urgency of addressing the crisis in Gaza, focusing on securing a ceasefire, ensuring humanitarian aid delivery, and working towards a political solution.