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CAIRO/ALGIERS – In a move to strengthen the long-standing fraternal ties between Algeria and Egypt, Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf held a phone call with his Egyptian counterpart, Dr. Badr Abdelatty, to discuss bilateral cooperation and pressing regional challenges.

Dr. Badr Abdelatty, Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation, and Egyptians Expatriates, receives a phone call from Mr. Ahmed Attaf, Minister of Foreign Affairs and the National Community Abroad of the People's Democratic Republic of Algeriahttps://t.co/T1uRq3rh4M pic.twitter.com/z8CXib9NsJ

— Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Egypt (@MFAEgOfficial) May 15, 2026

During the conversation, Minister Abdelatty emphasized the importance of accelerating joint cooperation to elevate bilateral relations across various sectors, meeting the aspirations of both nations and serving their mutual interests.

Strategic Coordination on Libya

A primary focus of the call was the evolving situation in Libya, a shared priority for both capitals. Both ministers underscored the vital role of the Tripartite Mechanism for Libya’s Neighboring Countries, highlighting its importance in harmonizing visions and coordinating joint diplomatic positions to ensure regional stability.

Regional De-escalation Efforts

Minister Abdelattay also briefed his Algerian counterpart on Egypt’s intensive diplomatic efforts with international and regional stakeholders aimed at lowering regional tensions. He reiterated that negotiation and dialogue remain the only viable path to containing current crises.

Future Outlook

Concluding the call, both officials agreed to maintain close consultation and collaborative actions. Their goal is to expand the framework of cooperation toward broader horizons, achieving mutual benefits while reinforcing stability throughout the region.

In a striking and provocative statement, former Tunisian President Moncef Marzouki claimed that Mohamed bin Zayed is “a man under orders who executes what is asked of him ” adding that he has become a threat the region.

During his appearance on the Eh El Hekaya podcast on Al-Sharqa channel, Marzouki asserted that Bin Zayed “received orders to exit OPEC and has no other choice. He further stated that the UAE leader represents a danger to the Gulf and the entire region, urging Gulf states to “neutralize and isolate him” adding that he believes Saudi Arabia is capable of doing so.

🚨 الرئيس التونسي 🇹🇳 الأسبق #منصف_المرزوقي في تصريح لافت وصادم : بن زايد 🇦🇪 رجل مأمور وأصبح يشكل خطر ‼️ على المنطقة لأنه جزء من إسرائيل 🇮🇱 pic.twitter.com/EnZbFCT9lR

— بوابة الجزائر – Algeria Gate (@algatedz) May 14, 2026

Continuing his controversial remarks, the former Tunisian president remarked that the UAE president “will not go far,” as he relies heavily on “Israeli and American support.

In a significant development reflecting growing internal fractures, Field Commander Ali Abdallah Rizqallah, widely known as Al-Safana, announced his defection from the Rapid Support Forces RSF militia. He declared his alignment with what he described as the will of the Sudanese people.

Al-Safana is regarded as one of the most prominent field commanders with the RSF having led key battles in Khartoum and El Fasher. His defection, along with his influential field force, represents a substantial moral and military blow to the organization.

This move comes just weeks after Commander Al-Noor Al-Qubba also announced his defection and joined the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF). These consecutive shifts suggest a potential widening wave of desertions within the militia’s ranks, fueled by the prolonged conflict and escalating military and political pressure on the RSF.

ضربة موجعة لميليشيا #الدعم_السريع المدعومة إماراتيا 🇦🇪 في #السودان 🇸🇩
القيادي في ميليشيا الدعم السريع علي رزق الله المشهور باسم #السافنا يعلن انشقاقه عن حميدتي pic.twitter.com/zRhuGbpfDa

— بوابة الجزائر – Algeria Gate (@algatedz) May 11, 2026