Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, Israel’s outgoing military chief, warned that Egypt’s military enhancements could pose future threats to Israel, despite their historic peace treaty. He noted current tensions and the importance of prioritizing immediate security issues. Israeli officials have raised concerns over military buildups in Sinai, while Egypt insists its military expansion is purely defensive to maintain national security.
Israel’s outgoing military chief, Lt. Gen. Herzi Halevi, has expressed concerns regarding Egypt’s expanding military capabilities, which he believes could pose a future threat, notwithstanding the longstanding peace treaty between the two nations. In a speech given in Holon, Israel, he stated that, while Egypt does not presently represent a direct danger, significant advancements in their military resources—including jets, submarines, and missile systems—could alter the status quo rapidly.
Halevi emphasized the importance of prioritizing current security challenges over perceived threats from Egypt. He noted during his remarks, “We are very concerned about this,” referencing Egypt’s military expansion but also clarified that the immediate risk level is not high. He further highlighted historical precedents, mentioning the leadership change in Egypt under President Mohamed Morsi, which could have shifted military priorities drastically.
These insights came amidst rising tensions between Israel and Egypt, following Halevi’s announcement of his resignation amid scrutiny of the Israel Defense Forces (IDF) following recent attacks. Prior to these comments, Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yechiel Leiter raised flags concerning violations of the peace treaty due to military buildup in the Sinai Peninsula, stating, “There are bases being built, and they can only be used for offensive operations.”
Military analysts have pointed out that satellite images indicate a surge in military assets surpassing those permitted under the 1979 Camp David Accords. Mariam Wahba, a research analyst, noted that a significant increase in troop deployments could destabilize the longstanding peace and embolden hostile entities such as Iran in the region.
Israeli Ambassador to the UN Danny Danon also voiced worries about Egypt’s military modernization, arguing that the financial investments in military equipment are unwarranted given the absence of immediate threats. He remarked, “After Oct. 7, this should raise alarm bells,” reflecting the lessons learned from the recent Hamas attacks.
In response, Egyptian Ambassador to the UN Osama Abdel Khalek defended his country’s military expansion, asserting that it serves as a defensive measure aimed at ensuring national security and regional stability. Although concerns persist regarding Egypt’s military presence, reports indicate that security cooperation between Cairo and Jerusalem remains strong to safeguard mutual interests and promote stability.
However, Egypt’s military activities, especially in the Sinai and along the Gaza border, continue to be a source of apprehension within Israel. The country views certain actions as potential violations of the peace treaty, particularly amid ongoing discussions regarding the governance of Gaza following the recent conflict. Egypt has firmly rejected any plans that would increase its governance role in Gaza, advocating instead for a sustainable two-state solution.
In summary, Israeli military officials are increasingly apprehensive about Egypt’s military advancements amid spiraling regional tensions. While current assessments indicate that Egypt does not pose an immediate threat, potential shifts in their military strategy require ongoing vigilance. The delicate balance established by the Camp David Accords is crucial for regional stability, and any deviation could have broader implications for peace between Israel and its neighbors.
Original Source: www.algemeiner.com
