The U.S. Department of State issued a statement today, confirming that U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken expressed his gratitude to his Egyptian counterpart, Sameh Shoukry, for the "crucial" role that Egypt played in reaching a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Palestinian factions in the Gaza Strip.

The statement noted that Blinken emphasized, during a phone call with Shoukry, the importance of maintaining close coordination between the two countries to support stability in the region and prevent escalation again.

The U.S. State Department reiterated its appreciation for Cairo's ongoing efforts to mediate an end to the violence in Gaza, which followed days of bombing and escalation that resulted in a large number of martyrs and injuries, and widespread destruction in the besieged territory.

The statement added that the United States is working with its partners in the region, led by Egypt, to ensure the urgent delivery of humanitarian aid to the affected civilian population.