Egypt has not only remained uncooperative in recent humanitarian and security matters but has also worsened the crises affecting Gaza. Historically avoiding blame for its actions, Egypt’s intelligence failure on October 7 and refusal to accommodate Palestinian refugees reveal its ineffectiveness in addressing Israeli-Palestinian conflicts. The regime prioritizes internal stability over external humanitarian obligations, reflecting a larger pattern of negligence and evasion of responsibility.
Over the past 16 months, Egypt has showcased a lack of cooperation regarding security and humanitarian efforts, often exacerbating issues instead of alleviating them. Historically, Egypt has evaded international criticism for its actions, including its role in obstructing genuine Palestinian sovereignty and its alliance with Israel in the blockade of Gaza post-Hamas’s takeover. Despite significant past endeavors, Egypt remains largely unacknowledged by human rights organizations regarding its policies.
The events following October 7 starkly highlighted Egypt’s ineffectiveness in addressing the Gaza situation. Although Egypt established an operational connection with Hamas aimed at counterinsurgency against ISIS in Sinai, its intelligence failed to predict the escalation on that date. Egypt’s immediate reaction was to close the Rafah crossing, restricting Palestinian refugees’ potential exit, further trapping them in a conflict dominated by Hamas’ tactics.
Egypt’s reluctance to allow Palestinian civilians refuge in Sinai speaks to a long-standing policy of treating Palestinians as strategic assets against Israel. Reports indicate that many desperate Palestinians had to resort to paying significant bribes to escape, often involving corrupt ties with Egyptian officials. President El-Sissi, meanwhile, publicly opposed the forced displacement of Palestinians while privately reinforcing these restrictions.
About ten days post-October 7, El-Sissi called for pro-Palestinian demonstrations while pushing unfounded accusations against Israel for local incidents such as the hospital explosion. Furthermore, when Israel initiated actions against Hamas, Egypt threatened its peace treaty and took part in legal challenges against Israel without significantly addressing the humanitarian crisis.
The humanitarian conditions worsened as Egypt opted not to resume aid through Rafah until Palestinian governance was reestablished. This decision compounded the existing challenges in Gaza, with Egyptian military operations failing to limit Hamas’ capabilities significantly. Corruption among Egyptian customs officials has perpetuated the smuggling of weapons and other resources despite strict border controls.
El-Sissi’s regime primarily focuses on internal security, reflecting a fear of internal dissent rather than true national security. This has necessitated Israel’s involvement in bolstering Egyptian military efforts against local insurgents. While Egypt’s recent actions reflect a combination of malevolent intent, incompetence, and a cautious stance toward its populace, it has failed to take a constructive role in Israeli-Palestinian dynamics or humanitarian responses.
In summary, Egypt’s handling of the humanitarian crisis and security complexities surrounding Gaza and the broader Palestinian issue demonstrates a consistent pattern of negligence and ineffectiveness. Despite its historical ties and capabilities, the Egyptian regime appears unmotivated to change its approach, leading to ongoing suffering in Gaza while avoiding accountability for its actions. A reevaluation of expectations regarding Egypt’s role in regional peace is essential, particularly in the light of its past impunity.
Original Source: www.australianjewishnews.com
