Egypt takes proactive role in latest surge of violence in Gaza

The Egyptian government has made it clear which side it takes in the fight between Gaza and Israel that exploded this week after the assassination of a high ranking Hamas official. “Post-revolution Egypt stands by its Palestinian sons until their rights are restored to them,” said Prime Minister Hisham Kandil. At the same press conference, Kandil also called on Israel to respect the treaties it signed and urged all Palestinian factions to unite in the face of the attacks. “Today Egypt stands alongside Gaza on Palestinian soil.” said Ismail Haniyeh, head of the Hamas government, “I call on everyone to follow in the footsteps of Egypt.”

Egyptian president Mohammed Morsi says Egypt “will not leave Gaza on its own” and warned the “aggressor to stop the bloodshed or face the wrath” of Egypt’s new government.

Twenty Palestinians and three Israelis have been killed since Wednesday. Palestinian officials say their casualties include militants, civilians and children.