Biden tells Sissi deal wouldn’t be possible without Egypt; leaders agree to stay in touch ‘in coming hours’

Jacob Magid is The Times of Israel's US bureau chief

During their phone call earlier, US President Joe Biden told Egyptian President Abdel-Fattah el-Sissi that “this deal would never have been possible without Egypt’s essential and historic role in the Middle East and commitment to diplomacy for resolving conflicts,” according to a White House readout.

The statement appears aimed at calming tensions, in light of reports of Egyptian frustration at being sidelined in the hostage talks taking place in Qatar.

“Both leaders committed to remain in close coordination directly and through their teams over the coming hours,” the readout adds.

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