Israel’s outgoing military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, warns that Egypt’s strengthening military could soon present a risk, despite the existing peace treaty. He refers to advancements in Egypt’s military capabilities and historical context surrounding potential shifts in leadership. Recent comments from Israeli officials highlight concerns over military buildups in the Sinai Peninsula, prompting discussions about regional security stability and the implications of peace treaty violations.
Israel’s outgoing military chief has alerted that Egypt’s increasing military capabilities might pose an unforeseen danger to Israel, notwithstanding their long-standing peace accord. In a recent address to officer graduates in Holon, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi indicated that while Egypt does not currently present a direct threat, advancements in missiles, aircraft, and submarines may alter this status rapidly.
Halevi emphasized concerns over Egypt’s military expansion, stating, “We are very concerned about this… This is not at the top of our priorities. We have to give priority to our problems.” This warning follows Halevi’s decision to resign as chief of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) after a significant failure during Hamas’s incursion into southern Israel on October 7, 2023.
While addressing officer graduates, Halevi acknowledged Egypt’s formidable military capabilities, highlighting the existence of advanced equipment, including aircraft and submarines. He noted, “We believe that this is not a threat now, but this situation can change in a moment,” underscoring the unpredictability of regional dynamics.
His statements coincided with escalating tensions between Israel and Egypt. Recently, Israeli Ambassador to the U.S., Yechiel Leiter, criticized Egypt for violations of the peace treaty, citing significant military buildups and bases in the Sinai Peninsula that could serve offensive purposes. Leiter remarked, “There are bases being built, and they can only be used for offensive operations and offensive weapons.”
Experts, including Mariam Wahba from the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, have reported on the military buildup in Egypt. Satellite images reportedly indicate troop movements exceeding the limits set by the Camp David Accords, which restrict Egypt to 47 battalions without Israel’s consent. Some estimates suggest there may now be formations for 180 battalions.
Wahba expressed concerns regarding the impact of any breakdown of these accords, stating, “A breakdown of the agreement would have serious implications, not just for Israel and Egypt but for the broader region.” Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, echoed similar worries, questioning the necessity of Egypt’s modern military expenditures despite cessation of threats along its borders.
The Egyptian Ambassador to the UN, Osama Abdel Khalek, responded by defending Egypt’s military posture as essential to its national security and a stabilizing force in the region. He described Egypt’s military strategy as purely defensive, aimed at upholding regional stability amidst rising tensions.
Despite apprehensions surrounding Egypt’s military initiatives, Israeli defense sources continue to recognize the importance of maintained security coordination between the two nations. Such coordination has been essential for both countries, historically contributing to mutual national security interests.
However, heightened military activity in Sinai coupled with infrastructure developments raises alarm in Israel, especially at the Philadelphi Corridor near Gaza. Tensions have escalated as Egypt presses for Israel’s withdrawal from areas it controls in light of increased insecurity.
In light of these developments, Egypt’s military expansion in juxtaposition with its rejection of proposals concerning Gaza governance illustrates the growing complexity of regional geopolitics. Egypt continues to promote a two-state solution amidst ongoing conflicts and refuses to assume control over Gaza, highlighting its position amidst international diplomatic efforts.
The remarks by Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi signal increasing concerns from Israeli military officials regarding Egypt’s growing military capabilities, potentially altering the longstanding peace dynamics. While currently not viewed as an immediate threat, the evolution of Egypt’s military might necessitates close monitoring by Israel. Historical context and recent tensions underscore the complexity of the Israeli-Egyptian relationship, influenced by regional stability, military dynamics, and peace treaties. With both nations facing security challenges, continued coordination remains crucial to avoid escalations.
Original Source: www.algemeiner.com
