Israel Confronts Egypt Over Secret Military Buildup in Sinai

Senior Israeli officials have raised alarms over Egypt’s alleged secret military buildup in the Sinai Peninsula, accusing Cairo of violating the terms of the 1979 peace agreement between the two nations. The situation has prompted diplomatic exchanges, with Egyptian officials proposing U.S. mediation to ease tensions.

Israeli concerns have intensified following social media posts purportedly showing the Egyptian army conducting exercises that simulate a potential invasion of Israel through Sinai. Israeli diplomatic sources indicated that Egypt’s recent military expansions far exceed the defensive limitations set by the peace treaty, with new bases reportedly constructed for offensive operations.

In response, Egyptian officials denied any hostile intentions, attributing the videos to “entities with foreign interests aiming to destabilize relations between the countries.” Egypt has suggested accelerated bilateral dialogue to address the situation and reduce misunderstandings.

The growing friction comes on the heels of statements by Israeli Ambassador to the U.S. Yehiel Leiter, who recently described the developments as “intolerable” during a briefing with American Jewish organization leaders. “Cairo has constructed military bases in Sinai that can only be used for offensive operations... that’s a clear violation,” Leiter warned, adding that Israel would soon address the issue "very emphatically."

Satellite imagery showing changes in Egyptian military deployment in Sinai has also raised concerns among Israeli border communities. Military expert Yagil Henkin noted that Egypt has repeatedly moved forces into Sinai without prior approval from Israel, seeking retroactive consent from Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, who has consistently granted it.

“This happened through creeping annexation,” Henkin explained. “First, they would bring in forces, then retroactively request Israeli approval, which was always given. Even after operational needs ended, forces were not withdrawn.”

The tensions are further complicated by geopolitical shifts, including U.S. President Donald Trump’s proposal to relocate Palestinians from Gaza a move Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has firmly opposed. Sisi has postponed a planned visit to the White House in protest.

Israeli officials believe that Sisi’s opposition to housing Palestinian refugees in Sinai may be influenced by internal threats from the Muslim Brotherhood. Ambassador Leiter suggested that a decisive Israeli victory over Hamas, the Brotherhood’s Gaza-based offshoot, could improve cooperation with Cairo in a post-Hamas scenario.

Amid rising diplomatic and security challenges, Israel is expected to push for greater transparency and adherence to the peace agreement, reinforcing its commitment to maintaining stability along its southern border.

Stay informed about Israel’s diplomatic efforts and security measures. Share this article or subscribe to our newsletter for more updates.