Jerusalem Post: Doubts Raised on Egypt-Israel Relations

An Israeli analyst in the Jerusalem Post questions Egypt's intentions towards Israel, highlighting potential risks from the Sinai Peninsula. Despite strategic economic cooperation and a seeming shift away from pro-Palestinian policies, the Egyptian defense doctrine appears to still view Israel as a potential adversary.

Diplomat David Ben Basat expressed concerns about the Al-Tariq podcast, where a former Egyptian pilot stated that Gaza is used by Egypt to exert continuous pressure on Israel. Basat argues that Egypt does not seek to resolve the Gaza issue but uses it as a strategic tool to maintain the Israeli-Palestinian conflict.

Despite the restrictions imposed on military presence in the Sinai by the 1979 peace treaty, Egypt has deployed significant weaponry in the area, particularly after the increase in Islamic State activity. Basat believes this military buildup is a strategic card against Israel, indicating a gap between official 'peace' and actual mentality.

The economic relationship between the two countries is also complex. Egypt depends on Israeli natural gas, creating a paradox where, while economically needing Israel, it simultaneously acts to keep it weak. This 'double' policy allows Egypt to advance its interests on both fronts.

Basat concludes that Israel must reassess its position on peace with Egypt, considering that cooperation in intelligence and economics does not guarantee a change in Cairo's defense thinking. Egypt maintains an attitude of suspicion and hostility, using Gaza as a tool in the regional balance of power.