Israeli concerns over Egypt’s military capabilities and potential threats have escalated amid changing regional dynamics, including military buildups and strategic aims for territorial annexation. Incidents demonstrating anti-Zionism within Egypt, alongside Israeli reassurances and diplomatic tensions, highlight a precarious and evolving relationship.
Egypt’s military capabilities and evolving relationship with Israel have raised concerns about potential conflict. Israeli policies may be shifting from supporting client states to seeking full demilitarization of its borders. Following the overthrow of the Syrian government, Israel has conducted numerous strikes on military facilities, effectively undermining the regime that emerged with links to Daesh. Despite Israel’s actions, the new regime’s response has been largely passive, particularly regarding violations of Syrian sovereignty.
Israeli leaders have openly expressed their intentions to permanently annex occupied Syrian land, signaling a potential focus on Egypt as a new target. Former Israeli chief of staff Herzi Halevi articulated apprehensions about Egypt’s advanced military capabilities, recalling near threats following Egypt’s regime changes in 2011. For instance, Israeli ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, criticized Egypt’s military buildup in Sinai, noting the financial resources allocated to military advancements despite no current threats.
Danon highlighted alarming developments post-October 7, emphasizing the need for vigilance regarding Egyptian military actions. He pointed out the cultural opposition to Zionism within Egypt, evident in recent incidents like the assassination of Ziv Kipper, an Israeli linked to Mossad. The incident underscores ongoing anti-Zionist sentiments in the Egyptian military, contributing to Israel’s unease.
Confusion regarding Israeli-Egyptian relations was further exemplified by statements from Israeli ambassador Yechiel Leiter, who raised concerns about Egypt’s military base developments that violate existing agreements. Brigadier General Itamar Ben-Haim reassured that Israelis living near the border need not be alarmed about a potential Egyptian offensive, yet ongoing rumors of military mobilization in Sinai have created uncertainty.
Coordination regarding Egypt’s military presence is dictated by the Israeli-Egyptian surrender agreement, requiring discussions with the Multinational Force and Observers (MFO), which includes a significant U.S. contingent. Recent footage suggested the construction of internment camps in Egypt, ostensibly for containing Palestinians, contributing to speculation about Egypt’s preparations for potential refugee inflows from Gaza.
Ultimately, Egypt’s stance regarding the Israeli objectives for territorial expansion remains ambiguous, complicating the prospects for regional stability and peace.
The dynamics between Egypt and Israel are complex and fraught with suspicion. Israeli fears regarding Egypt’s military developments highlight ongoing tensions stemming from cultural opposition to Zionism. Despite assurances from Israeli officials, the potential for conflict remains, especially with reports of Egyptian military preparations and strategic shifts in Israeli policy. The situation calls for careful observation of both nations’ military activities and diplomatic relations.
Original Source: www.presstv.ir
