UN chief and several leaders will meet at summit in Egypt on Saturday

Egypt said it is preparing a peace summit scheduled for Saturday, with regional and international leaders invited to participate, in a bid to de-escalate the conflict and protect civilians in Gaza.

Egypt said it is preparing a peace summit scheduled for Saturday, with regional and international leaders invited to participate, in a bid to de-escalate the conflict and protect civilians in Gaza.

Leaders from Qatar, Turkey, Greece, Jordan, the United Arab Emirates, Bahrain, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Iraq and Cyprus have confirmed attendance, according to state news.

In addition, a Palestinian leader, the United Nations secretary general and the Arab League secretary general have also confirmed attendance, it said.

Separately, Japan confirmed that its Foreign Minister Yoko Kamikawa will also be at the summit.

Earlier Friday, German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock's office said she is extending her Middle East trip to attend the summit as well.