Israel files complaint against Egypt with Trump administration
Israel lodges complaint against Egypt with Trump administration (Getty Images)
Tensions are rising between Israel and Egypt, as authorities in Jerusalem express concern over Cairo’s actions in the Sinai Peninsula, viewing them as a potential violation of the 1979 peace treaty, according to a publication by Axios.
During a meeting in Jerusalem on Monday, Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu presented US Secretary of State Marco Rubio with information regarding Egyptian military activity in the Sinai Peninsula, which Israel believes could run counter to the 1979 peace treaty guaranteed by the United States.
Israeli allegations about Egyptian activity
Israeli officials argued that Egypt has been building military infrastructure with potential offensive uses, despite restrictions that only permit light weaponry in certain areas. According to their data, Cairo has expanded runways for fighter jets and is constructing underground facilities that could be used for missile storage. Although no direct evidence of missile deployment has been found, Israel maintains that Cairo has not provided a satisfactory explanation. Officials said they approached the Trump administration after direct talks with Egypt failed to deliver results.
Cairo has rejected the allegations, with Egyptian representatives insisting that Washington has not raised the issue recently.
Frozen diplomatic contacts
Contacts between Netanyahu and President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi have been effectively frozen since late 2022, with their last phone call held in June 2023. Against the backdrop of the war in Gaza, Egypt fears that Israel may attempt to push Palestinians into Sinai. Cairo has strengthened forces along the border, stating that a large influx of refugees would pose a threat to its national security. Netanyahu, meanwhile, has criticized Egypt for refusing to accept residents of Gaza, accusing Cairo of preventing people from leaving the conflict zone.
Israel's offensive in Gaza
At the same time, Israeli forces continue their ground offensive in the Gaza Strip, advancing into Gaza City. According to the military, units have pushed deeper into the territory and reached central districts. The Israel Defense Forces also reported destroying 25 structures described as "terrorist towers," allegedly used by Hamas for military operations and sheltering fighters.
