Herzi Halevi, Israel’s outgoing military chief, has voiced concerns about Egypt becoming a potential security threat due to its military capabilities. Despite current non-threat status, Halevi stresses that the situation could change rapidly. Recent U.S. proposals concerning Gaza have further complicated Egypt’s political landscape, raising fears of instability within the Egyptian regime.
The outgoing chief of the Israeli military, Herzi Halevi, has expressed serious concerns regarding Egypt’s potential security threat. In an interview with Israel’s Channel 14, Halevi remarked, “We are very concerned about this,” adding that Egypt possesses a robust military capability, including advanced weapons, aircraft, submarines, and missile ships.
While Halevi indicated that Egypt is not currently a direct threat, he noted that the security landscape could shift rapidly, referencing the past when Mohamed Morsi’s leadership changed Egypt’s militaristic stance. Following the ousting of Morsi, who was perceived as a supporter of Palestinian interests, Egypt’s political dynamics have significantly altered.
The situation escalated recently when President Donald Trump suggested controversial plans to address the Gaza situation, which prompted fears within Egyptian leadership regarding their regime’s stability. Specifically, the mention of moving Palestinians to Egypt and Jordan raised alarm, as Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has faced increasing pressure domestically regarding issues of legitimacy and governance.
In response to Trump’s remarks, security assessments have intensified, as evidenced by the sighting of numerous Egyptian tanks near Rafah. A senior Egyptian official subsequently reported that Egypt and Jordan had successfully persuaded the United States to endorse an Arab-supported post-war plan for Gaza, circumventing Trump’s original proposal.
Overall, Egypt’s historical commitment to peace with Israel since 1979 remains crucial. Still, recent events showcase the delicate balance of power in the region and the potential ramifications of external pressures on domestic politics.
In summary, Israel’s military chief has highlighted growing concerns about Egypt’s emerging military capabilities, citing the potential for rapid shifts in security dynamics. The impacts of U.S. foreign policy proposals regarding Gaza further complicate the situation, as Egyptian leaders grapple with maintaining stability while addressing external pressures. The strategic relationship between Egypt and Israel continues to be challenged by both regional and international developments.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
