Israel’s outgoing military chief, Herzi Halevi, has voiced serious concerns about Egypt possibly turning into a security threat due to its military capabilities. He emphasized Egypt’s extensive army and advanced weapons while reflecting on the potential shifts in regional stability, especially in light of U.S. proposals concerning Gaza. This situation indicates the complexities surrounding Israeli-Egyptian relations amid evolving political landscapes.
Herzi Halevi, Israel’s outgoing military chief, has expressed significant concerns regarding Egypt’s potential transformation into a security threat. In a recent interview with Israel’s Channel 14, Halevi emphasized the substantial military capabilities of Egypt, mentioning their large army and advanced weaponry, including sophisticated aircraft and submarines. While he noted that Egypt is not currently a priority threat, Halevi warned that the situation could rapidly evolve, recalling the political dynamics during Mohamed Morsi’s presidency in 2011.
Halevi resigned from his military post following Israel’s failure to anticipate Hamas’ attack on southern Israel on 7 October 2023, with his resignation effective on 6 March. He referenced Egypt’s significant military assets, including numerous advanced tanks and ground forces, indicating that a shift in leadership could lead to heightened tensions. This concern has been exacerbated by recent developments following President Donald Trump’s controversial Gaza proposal, which involved transferring Palestinian residents to Egypt and Jordan, provoking unrest in Egyptian political circles.
In response to Trump’s comments, which sent shockwaves throughout Egyptian diplomacy and intelligence, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has firmly rejected the proposal. Reports indicated that Egyptian tanks were observed near Rafah, amid fears of potential regime legitimacy issues should the request be accepted. Moreover, a senior Egyptian official disclosed that Egypt and Jordan successfully persuaded the U.S. to support an Egyptian-led post-war plan for Gaza that allies with Arab nations. Sisi faces criticism for allowing conditions that facilitate the siege on Gaza, raising questions about the implications of such policies on regional stability and the Egyptian regime’s longevity.
In summary, Herzi Halevi’s warning about Egypt’s military capabilities highlights a growing concern regarding regional security dynamics, especially against the backdrop of U.S. policy proposals for Gaza. His resignation amid the fallout from Hamas’ attacks underscores the intricacies of Israeli-Egyptian relations, while the reactions to U.S. proposals reflect significant political maneuvering within Egypt. The continued monitoring of Egypt’s military assets and political stability remains critical for Israeli strategic interests.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
