Israel has raised concerns over Egypt’s military buildup in the Sinai Peninsula, calling for adherence to their peace treaty. Katz warned against violations, emphasizing the treaty’s importance to regional stability, while Egypt maintains its commitment to the accords. The increasing military presence in Sinai has not gone unaddressed by Israeli officials, who state it poses a significant threat to their agreements.
Israeli Defense Minister Israel Katz has cautioned Egypt against breaching the peace treaty between the two nations, in light of concerns over a military buildup in the Sinai Peninsula, adjacent to Gaza. While Egypt has maintained its commitment to the existing peace accords, it has not publicly addressed these accusations. Katz stated on Monday that Israel will not tolerate any violations or disruptions to the agreed-upon infrastructure.
The importance of maintaining the peace treaty, which has been in effect since 1979, cannot be overstated, as any threats to it would jeopardize regional stability. Egypt, being the first Arab state to sign a peace treaty with Israel, receives significant U.S. military aid that totals $1.3 billion annually. Furthermore, Egypt has played a crucial role in mediating ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.
Under the Camp David Accords, military limitations were imposed in eastern Sinai to establish a demilitarized buffer zone, monitored by Multinational Forces and Observers, alongside Egyptian civilian authorities. Katz referred to Egypt as “the largest and strongest Arab country,” reiterating the transformative impact of the treaty on Israel’s situation during an event commemorating former Prime Minister Menachem Begin’s legacy.
Recent reports have indicated an increased presence of Egyptian forces in northern Sinai. Despite the acknowledgment of heightened military activity, Egypt has not commented on these allegations or on detailed foreign media accounts concerning its military operations. Last year, ex-foreign minister Sameh Shoukry reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to the treaty, contingent upon mutual reciprocity.
Military analyst Samir Farag noted in January that, in response to terrorism threats, Egypt had to bolster its forces in Zone C near Rafah, exceeding treaty limits, typically coordinated with Israel. He framed the current situation as a misinterpretation of Egypt’s responses to security needs.
Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter remarked that Egypt’s military actions indicate serious treaty violations, which have thus far been overlooked. He emphasized the need to confront this situation publicly as the construction of military bases raises concerns over offensive capabilities.
Israeli authorities plan to continue addressing potential treaty violations, while Egypt concentrates on countering any repopulation strategies concerning Gazans in the peninsula.
The tensions surrounding the military buildup by Egypt in the Sinai Peninsula have prompted significant warnings from Israeli authorities regarding the peace treaty. Both nations underscore the importance of coordination and adherence to the existing agreements to avoid destabilization. The situation remains critical, with monitoring necessary from both sides to maintain regional security and prevent escalation.
Original Source: www.newsweek.com
