Israel’s outgoing military chief warned that Egypt’s expanding military capabilities could become a threat to Israel, despite the peace treaty. He highlighted concerns over Egypt’s advanced weaponry and past political changes that could alter military dynamics. Israeli officials express worries about violations of the Camp David Accords amidst increased militarization in Sinai, while emphasizing the importance of continued security collaboration for stability in the region.
Israel’s outgoing military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has raised concerns about Egypt’s increasing military capabilities, which could unexpectedly threaten Israel, despite their long-standing peace treaty. In a speech to officer graduates in Holon, Halevi stated that while Egypt is not a direct threat presently, its advanced military assets like aircraft and submarines pose a potential risk that could shift the security landscape swiftly. He emphasized the importance of prioritizing immediate challenges facing Israel, yet acknowledged the growing military tensions, particularly following the Hamas attack in October 2023.
Halevi noted that Egypt maintains a significant army equipped with advanced weaponry, stating, “Egypt has a large army. It has advanced weapons, advanced aircraft, advanced submarines, and missile ships.” He expressed concern over the possibility of changing political conditions within Egypt, referencing the 2011 rise of Mohamed Morsi and the Muslim Brotherhood, which reconfigured Egypt’s military leadership and could potentially alter its stance towards Israel.
Recently, Israeli officials have voiced worries regarding Egypt’s military expansion. Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, accused Egypt of violating their peace treaty by expanding its military presence in the Sinai Peninsula beyond permitted limits, asserting, “There are bases being built, and they can only be used for offensive operations.” Satellite images reportedly reveal significant troop movements that exceed the 47 battalions allowed under the Camp David Accords.
According to experts, any breakdown of the Camp David Accords could have widespread repercussions in the region, increasing militarization along Israel’s borders and empowering adversaries like Iran. Recent concerns raised by Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon about Egypt’s military spending highlighted that their aggressive procurement of modern military equipment seems unjustified given the regional stability.
In response to these issues, Egypt’s UN Ambassador defended the nation’s military strategy, stating it is focused on national security and regional stability rather than aggression. Despite rising tensions, Israeli defense officials reported that security coordination between the two countries remains robust, reflecting decades of collaboration aimed at safeguarding mutual interests.
Tensions have particularly heightened regarding Egypt’s military presence in the Sinai, especially following the Israeli control of the Philadelphi Corridor, which Cairo views as a violation of their agreement. Egypt has also dismissed any oversight responsibilities in Gaza post-war, sticking to its long-standing support for a two-state solution to the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, rejecting proposals for stronger administrative control over Gaza.
In conclusion, the outgoing IDF chief highlights potential threats from Egypt’s military enhancements, stressing the need for vigilance while prioritizing Israel’s immediate concerns. Rising military tensions, perceived violations of treaties, and shifts in political leadership in Egypt warrant close monitoring of security developments. Overall, effective cooperation remains essential to maintain regional stability despite growing apprehensions.
Original Source: www.algemeiner.com
