Concerns Grow Over Egyptian Military Threat, Warns Israeli Chief

Herzi Halevi, the outgoing Israeli military chief, has raised concerns about Egypt’s military capabilities, describing it as a potential future threat. Though he views the current situation as stable, historical context suggests rapid changes could occur, especially following U.S. proposals regarding Gaza that have unsettled Egyptian leadership. Discussions among Arab states are ongoing to develop a coordinated plan post-conflict.

Israel’s outgoing military chief, Herzi Halevi, has expressed significant concern regarding Egypt’s potential transformation into a security threat in the near future. During an interview with Israel’s Channel 14, Halevi emphasized the capabilities of the Egyptian military, which includes a large army equipped with advanced weaponry, fighter jets, submarines, and missile ships. Although he acknowledged that Egypt does not currently pose an immediate threat, he cautioned that the situation could change rapidly, citing historical precedents such as the rise of Mohamed Morsi in 2011.

Halevi’s resignation from his position as chief of the general staff took place on January 21 due to perceived failures linked to Hamas’ recent unexpected attack in southern Israel. He will officially step down on March 6, 2023. Halevi noted the significant number of advanced tanks and ground forces in Egypt’s arsenal, reinforcing the potential for a shift in regional military dynamics.

The discussion surrounding Egypt’s military capabilities occurs against a backdrop of heightened tensions following remarks made by former President Donald Trump regarding U.S. plans concerning Gaza. Sources indicate that Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has firmly rejected these proposals, recognizing the potential harm they could inflict on his regime’s stability. In light of these events, there are rising tensions within Egyptian officials about the implications of accepting U.S. plans, with some insinuating that it could threaten the legitimacy of Sisi’s rule.

In response to the current geopolitical climate, there have been reports of hundreds of Egyptian tanks mobilizing in Rafah, North Sinai, an area closely monitored under the Egypt-Israel peace treaty. Furthermore, discussions are ongoing among Arab leaders to devise a coordinated strategy following the intense pressure from Trump’s administration. Recently, senior Egyptian officials announced collaborations with Jordan that successfully led to the dissuasion of Trump’s original Gaza plan, advocating for an Egyptian-led initiative supported by Arab allies.

In summary, Israel’s military leadership is increasingly wary of Egypt’s capabilities and the potential for a rapid shift in its security posture. Herzi Halevi’s remarks underscore both Egypt’s military strength and the historical precedents that could precipitate change. The geopolitical landscape is further complicated by external pressures from the United States concerning Gaza, which could have significant ramifications for Egypt’s internal stability. The ongoing dialogues among Arab leaders might provide a framework for a more unified approach toward regional security.

Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net