What’s happening:
Egypt has augmented its military presence along the border with the Gaza Strip, deploying approximately 40 tanks and armored personnel carriers to the northeastern Sinai region in the past two weeks. The move appears to be a pre-emptive measure to secure the border amid expansion of Israeli military operations in southern Gaza, particularly around the city of Rafah.
Why it matters:
The reinforcement of Egypt’s border defenses addresses concerns over potential Palestinian attempts to flee into Sinai due to the intensification of Israeli airstrikes. Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s office has called for an evacuation and targeting of Hamas battalions, signalling a possible full-scale offensive. Egypt aims to fortify its border to prepare for such eventualities and demonstrate its control over the region.
Background:
Egypt has recently constructed a comprehensive border wall complete with surveillance and anti-smuggling measures. Parallel initiatives have involved clearing a buffer zone, leading to the relocation of local populations and destruction of homes. As part of a long-standing blockade effort with Israel, movement across the Gaza borders is strictly controlled.
Developments:
Satellite imagery and photos from human rights groups suggest new barriers, including a triple-layer barbed wire atop the border wall. Despite heightened tension over Israel’s military campaign in Gaza, the ongoing cooperation between Egypt and Israel in the area of border security remains a strategic necessity.
Bigger picture:
The Egypt-Israel relationship, a peaceful alliance spanning over four decades, has been stressed by the recent Gaza conflict. Joint concerns involve not only the immediate security but also the implications of potential displacement of Gazan residents. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sissi has warned that such displacement could lead to further instability, including a heightened risk of attacks against Israel.
The response:
Officials from both Egypt and Israel are yet to offer comments on the latest border developments. Meanwhile, Egyptian measures have been publicly criticized within the context of the Gaza military operations, with accusations from Israel about smuggling weapons being particularly contentious. Egypt continues to call claims of smuggling “lies” and emphasizes its commitment to securing a ceasefire in Gaza.
Humanitarian Impact:
The reinforced border measures have implications for the humanitarian situation in Gaza, where contributions of aid and the risk of famine are critical issues. Egypt accuses Israel of restricting aid deliveries, while Israel denies impeding humanitarian assistance. The international community remains focused on these developments and the broader stability of the region.
The bottom line:
Amid the conflict in Gaza and the consequent measures to reinforce border security, Egypt maintains a delicate balance of ensuring regional stability, preventing an influx of refugees, and addressing humanitarian concerns while managing its strategic partnership with Israel.
This story was first published on timesofisrael.com.