Halevi Raises Concerns Over Potential Security Threat from Egypt

Herzi Halevi, the outgoing Israeli Chief of Staff, expressed concerns about a potential security threat from Egypt, although he stated it is not an immediate danger. Other Israeli officials have also voiced similar worries regarding Egypt’s military enhancement. Despite this, Egypt maintained that a strong military is essential for national security while emphasizing its commitment to peace in the region.

Outgoing Israeli Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi has recently raised alarms regarding what he perceives as a potential “security threat from Egypt.” While he reassured that this does not pose an immediate risk to Tel Aviv, he emphasized that the situation could rapidly evolve. These remarks were made during an address to officer course graduates in Holon, as reported by Israeli media earlier this week.

Halevi’s comments come amid growing apprehension from various Israeli officials about Egypt’s military capabilities. Israeli UN representative Danny Danon had previously questioned the rationale behind Egypt’s military enhancements, stating, “They have no threats in the region. Why do they [Egyptians] need all these submarines and tanks?” This implies a concern about the increasing armed strength of Egypt.

During his speech, Halevi elaborated on the concerns surrounding Egypt’s military assets, which include a substantial army with advanced weaponry, such as aircraft, submarines, and a considerable number of tanks and infantry units. Despite these worries, he acknowledged that this issue is not currently high on Israel’s priority list, although it remains a subject of concern.

As of the latest updates, Egypt has not formally responded to Halevi’s statements, yet it has previously addressed Danon’s assertions regarding military buildup. Egypt’s permanent representative at the UN, Ambassador Osama Abdel Khalek, underscored the necessity for a robust military to safeguard national security and reaffirmed Egypt’s commitment to peace, having laid the foundations for it historically in the region.

On March 26, 1979, Egypt and Israel signed a peace treaty following the Camp David Accords, which included critical agreements on ending hostilities, normalizing relations, and demilitarizing the Sinai Peninsula. Despite these historical agreements, the uncertainties regarding military advancements continue to loom large in the discourse between the two nations.

In summary, Chief of Staff Herzi Halevi’s concerning assessment of Egypt’s military enhancements highlights ongoing tensions on the Israel-Egyptian front. Despite reassurances regarding the lack of immediate threats, both Israeli and Egyptian officials engage in dialogues questioning military readiness and capability. Historical treaties underline the complexity of their relationship, with national security considerations driving current discussions.

Original Source: www.jordannews.jo