Senior officials in Egypt are increasingly alarmed by the potential of an Israeli military operation in Rafah, the southernmost city in the Gaza Strip. This concern comes amid discussions in Cairo on how to diplomatically intervene to prevent such an operation while also preparing to establish safeguards for civilians should it occur.
In a recent interview with the Saudi publication "A-Sharq al-Awast," Mohammed al-Arabi, who leads the Egyptian Council for Foreign Affairs and served as a former foreign minister, remarked that Israel is seriously contemplating a military strategy in Rafah. Al-Arabi suggested that Israel might opt for targeted operations aimed at Hamas rather than launching a full-scale incursion.
This is why Israel must take Rafah and finish the war. pic.twitter.com/hjbC5Yo8g2
— Jewish Lumber King 🇺🇲🌳🇮🇱 (@EzraDrissman) April 18, 2024
Furthermore, al-Arabi noted the significant international pressures on Israel, particularly from the United States, to minimize civilian casualties in any military endeavors in Rafah. He detailed Egypt's extensive diplomatic efforts, which include direct discussions with Israeli officials and efforts to garner regional and international support to dissuade Israel from taking military action. The overarching goal of these diplomatic efforts, al-Arabi stressed, is to temper Israeli actions through peaceful means.
Echoing al-Arabi's concerns, Tarek Redouan, the chair of the human rights committee in the Egyptian parliament, highlighted the potential repercussions of an Israeli incursion into Rafah on regional stability. He warned that such actions could exacerbate tensions and provoke widespread international condemnation.
Hamas leader Haniyeh gave an interview to Anadolu in Turkey during his trip, claiming that if Israel launches a Rafah operation, then Hamas will "not raise the white flag and the resistance is ready to defend itself."
— Seth Frantzman (@sfrantzman) April 21, 2024
This is important because it clearly shows that Hamas… pic.twitter.com/bAy2G87e0J
Additionally, an unidentified Egyptian military expert underscored the critical nature of the potential operation in Rafah for Israel, suggesting that not proceeding with the military action could be perceived both domestically and internationally as a significant defeat. This expert portrayed the situation as a crucial, strategic decision for Israel, hinting at the profound implications of either action or inaction.
Hamas has no motivation or incentive to negotiate. They think the world will keep Israel from doing the Rafah operation, their strategy will work, they will survive the war and thus achieve victory. https://t.co/8NDA5Bv3so
— John Spencer (@SpencerGuard) April 20, 2024
Overall, the discourse within Egypt reflects a blend of concern and proactive diplomatic engagement aimed at mitigating any negative outcomes from potential military operations in Rafah by Israel.
