Egyptian Foreign Minister Ahmed Abul-Gheit voiced Tuesday deep concern and resentment over the Israeli digging operations under al-Magharba Gate, which is considered part of the Western Wall of al-Aqsa Mosque.

In a statement issued by the ministry Tuesday, Abul-Gheit called on the Israeli authorities to stop any activities in that area and steer clear of any act that might infuriate Muslims' feelings.

Meantime, the statement warned of the consequences of taking any measures by the Israelis without first consulting Palestinian parties concerned, in view of the sensitivity of the situation.

It also stressed the importance of abiding by the International Humanitarian Law (IHL), especially the Geneva Conventions.

Furthermore, Palestinian Prime Minister Ismail Haniyeh appreciated efforts exerted by Egypt and an Egyptian security delegation to maintain security in the Gaza Strip and put an end to the infighting.

In statements on Tuesday at Arish airport while en route to the Saudi city of Makkah al-Mukarramah to attend a summit with Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, Haniyeh said Egypt will continue to undertake a pioneering role in the service of Palestinian and other Arab causes.

He gave the Egyptian security delegation credit for the current calm in the Palestinian self-rule areas.

The delegation, he said, was able to broker an agreement between Fatah and Hamas leaders to stem the shedding of Palestinian blood.