Israel’s Military Chief Warns of Egypt’s Growing Military Threat

Israel’s outgoing military chief has warned that Egypt’s growing military capabilities could become a future threat despite current peaceful relations. He emphasized that military upgrades in Egypt are concerning but not currently a direct threat. Other Israeli officials have echoed these concerns, noting a potential breach of the 1979 peace treaty and calling for increased vigilance regarding Egypt’s military expansion.

Israel’s outgoing military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has expressed concerns that Egypt’s growing military capabilities may pose a future threat, despite their longstanding peace treaty. During a speech in Holon, he stated that while Egypt does not currently represent a direct threat, the evolving military landscape could rapidly change. “We are very concerned about this,” Halevi remarked, noting the importance of prioritizing current issues over potential future threats.

In light of rising military tensions, Halevi highlighted Egypt’s significant military assets, including advanced aircraft, submarines, and missile ships. He warned that Egypt’s military infrastructure could shift under different leadership, recalling the notable change when Mohamed Morsi rose to power in 2011. “Suddenly, this entire army had another leadership, which could have turned against you,” Halevi cautioned.

These statements coincide with remarks from Israeli officials regarding Egypt’s military buildup. Israeli Ambassador to the US, Yechiel Leiter, earlier criticized Egypt for a potential breach of their peace agreement, pointing out the construction of military bases intended for offensive operations. He stated, “This is a clear violation [of the peace agreement]”, highlighting Israel’s vigilance over Egypt’s military enhancements.

Additionally, research analyst Mariam Wahba reported on satellite imagery revealing an increased military presence in the Sinai Peninsula that exceeds the limits established by the 1979 peace treaty. Cairo is permitted to request additional battalions, yet estimates suggest they currently host camps for up to 180 battalions, which undermines the preservation of peace in the region.

Israeli concerns are echoed by Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, who questioned the necessity for Egypt’s military acquisitions. He emphasized that investments in modern military assets amidst a lack of threats on their borders should alert Israel. “After Oct. 7, this should raise alarm bells,” he stated, reflecting on past experiences with sudden attacks.

Egyptian Ambassador to the UN Osama Abdel Khalek defended Egypt’s military stance, asserting that its military strength is necessary for national security and has a purely defensive orientation. In contrast to rising tensions, Israeli defense sources have affirmed ongoing security cooperation between Cairo and Jerusalem, which has historically benefited both nations.

However, concerns about Egypt’s military presence, particularly in the Sinai region, remain prevalent in Israel. The situation is further exacerbated by Cairo’s opposition to Israel’s hold on the Philadelphi Corridor, which is perceived as a violation of the peace treaty. Egypt has explicitly refused proposals that involve its governance of Gaza following the conflict with Hamas, advocating instead for a two-state solution to address the Israeli-Palestinian divide.

In summary, the outgoing IDF chief has signaled a potential shift in the balance of power due to Egypt’s military enhancements, emphasizing the need to monitor this situation closely. Despite ongoing cooperation between Israel and Egypt, the military buildup is raising alarms about future regional stability. Both nations must navigate these complexities with a focus on peace and mutual security interests.

Original Source: www.algemeiner.com