Israel’s outgoing military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, warned that Egypt’s growing military capabilities could become a significant threat to Israel despite the existing peace treaty. His remarks emphasized the need for Israel to focus on immediate security challenges while monitoring Egypt’s military developments, which have raised concerns in the Israeli government and among defense experts regarding potential violations of the 1979 agreement. Cooperations and tensions between both nations reflect a complicated relationship amid a shifting geopolitical landscape.
Israel’s outgoing military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has expressed concerns regarding Egypt’s expanding military capabilities, potentially presenting an unforeseen threat to Israel despite their longstanding peace treaty. During a speech in Holon, he clarified that while Egypt does not currently pose a direct threat to Israel, its advancements in military technology, including advanced jets, submarines, and missiles, could alter this situation abruptly. Halevi emphasized the importance of prioritizing immediate security concerns over the growth of Egypt’s military power.
Halevi’s remarks followed his resignation announcement amid criticism regarding the Israel Defense Forces’ failures during Hamas’s attacks on October 7, 2023. Despite acknowledging Egypt’s military developments, he pointed out that other issues remain more pressing at present. He cautioned that the evolving Egyptian military landscape may shift rapidly, potentially affecting regional stability.
Previously, Israeli Ambassador to the United States Yechiel Leiter had voiced similar worries about Egypt’s military buildup and actions in the Sinai Peninsula, which he believes violate the peace agreement established in 1979. Alongside satellite imagery revealing extensive deployments beyond permitted limits, an analyst noted that an escalation in proximity to Israeli borders poses significant risks not just bilaterally but regionally as well.
There are ongoing discussions in Israeli circles questioning Egypt’s military expenditures despite perceived lack of external threats. Israeli Ambassador to the UN, Danny Danon, emphasized the need for vigilance, referencing the unexpected attack from Hamas that had severe implications for Israel. While Cairo maintains that its military actions are defensive, Israeli sources affirm long-standing security cooperation enhances both nations’ stability.
Tensions have continued to rise, particularly regarding infrastructure projects in the region, where Egypt’s military activities may clash with the terms of the peace treaty. In an evolving atmosphere of conflict regarding the Gaza region, Egypt has reiterated its rejection of responsibility for governing the area after the recent war. Emphasizing the two-state solution, Egypt has also opposed external proposals for Gaza’s governance, further complicating the situation.
In conclusion, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi’s warnings about Egypt’s growing military capabilities illustrate the precarious balance of security in the region. While Egypt is not an immediate threat to Israel, the potential for escalation remains high, compelling Israeli officials to remain vigilant. With the backdrop of historical agreements and rising tensions in Sinai, both countries must navigate these complexities carefully while fostering regional stability. The ongoing discussions regarding military actions illustrate the intricate dynamics that impact peace efforts in the broader Middle East.
Original Source: www.algemeiner.com
