Monarch stresses need for joint action to de-escalate tensions LONDON: Jordan’s King Abdullah spoke to regional and international leaders on Sunday in a bid to de-escalate the rising tensions between Israel and the Palestinians. In a telephone conversation with Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, the king warned of the repercussions a prolonged conflict could have on regional security, the Jordan News Agency reported. The leaders agreed on the need for both Palestinians and Israelis to demonstrate self-restraint, protect civilian lives and adhere to international humanitarian law, while also reiterating their support for the Palestinian cause. In a conversation with Iraqi Prime Minister Mohammed Shia Al-Sudani, King Abdullah said coordination among Arab nations was vital in supporting the Palestinians to achieve their legitimate rights. He also reiterated the need for collective action to prevent the conflict from escalating. The king also spoke to European Council President Charles Michel about the situation. He stressed the need to find a just solution to the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and said cooperation between Jordan and the EU was vital to achieving peace in the region.