Senior Israeli intelligence and military figures met with Egypt’s intelligence chief in Cairo on Wednesday to deliberate on a possible IDF operation in Rafah, a city in southern Gaza. This marks a significant moment of coordination between Israel and Egypt, especially given the potential consequences of such an operation spilling over into Egyptian territory.
Egyptian officials have expressed concern that an Israeli military action in Rafah could force tens of thousands of Palestinians to flee into Egypt, potentially breaching the border and compromising Egyptian security. Such an event could severely strain or even rupture the diplomatic relations between Egypt and Israel, which have been maintained under a peace agreement for decades.
The meeting involved key figures including the head of Shin Bet, Ronen Bar, and IDF Chief of Staff General Harzi Halevi. They discussed not only the operational plans but also ongoing efforts to negotiate the release of hostages held in Gaza and the terms of a temporary ceasefire, with Egypt playing a central role in mediating these talks.
The discussions underscore the delicacy of the situation in Rafah, where over a million displaced Palestinians are estimated to be taking shelter. Israeli officials are reportedly planning a meticulous, neighborhood-by-neighborhood operation.
Expanded Coverage:
