Egypt to reinforce military forces along Gaza border

Egypt to reinforce military forces along Gaza border
Egyptian army IFV near Rafah crossing with Gaza, March 23, 2024. Photo: Khaled Desouki/AFP

Egypt is preparing to reinforce its military presence along the Gaza border with tens of thousands of troops, tanks and air-defence systems, according to Al-Araby Al-Jadeed, reports The Jerusalem Post. The move reflects Cairo’s fears that Israel’s push into Gaza City could trigger mass displacement of Palestinians into the Sinai, a scenario it considers a grave national security threat.

Sources told the outlet that Egypt expects up to a million Palestinians to flee southwards within Gaza, raising concerns that Israel might try to force civilians across the border. Officials stressed Egypt would act as a “firewall” against any attempt to expel Palestinians into its territory.

The deployment comes as Israel considers expanding its military operations and settlement activity, deepening regional unease. A former Egyptian diplomat said Cairo views the buildup as both a deterrent and a signal of its categorical rejection of displacement. He urged greater international pressure on Israel, including at the UN Security Council and through economic measures.

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