Tensions Rise Between Israel and Egypt Amid Joint Military Exercises with China
Background of the Situation
Relations between Israel and Egypt have reached a significant crisis point since the outbreak of the conflict in October 2023. Concerns in Cairo over the potential collapse of the border with Gaza, the influx of Gazans into Sinai, and the buildup of Egyptian forces near the border have raised numerous questions in Jerusalem. Compounding these tensions, Egypt recently conducted an unprecedented military exercise in collaboration with China, involving advanced Chinese fighter jets, which has drawn considerable attention.
Insights from Military Experts
To delve deeper into the underlying factors of this unusual military cooperation, Maariv spoke with Lieutenant Colstartl (Res.) Eli Dekel, a former intelligence offstartr and expert on Egypt.
Dekel stated that the military cooperation between Egypt and China is not a surprise but rather a part of a long-standing strategy aimed at reducing Egypt’s dependency on any single superpower. “For many decades, Egypt has deliberately sought to diversify its foreign relations and military partnerships to avoid the pitfalls it has experienced in the past, where it found itself dependent on the United States for arms and support,” he explained.
Egypt’s Strategic Military Partnerships
Highlighting the current dynamics, Dekel noted, “Egypt is intentionally maintaining relationships with a wide range of countries–any nation that has military capabilities.” Alongside China, Egypt regularly conducts exercises with Russia, France, and the United Kingdom. This approach is a fundamental element of Egyptian defense policy designed to mitigate the risks of reliance that have historically complicated its international relationships.
Moreover, Dekel pointed out the nuances in Egypt’s arms procurement strategies. Despite U.S. objections, Egypt has been active in the Chinese arms market, acquiring sophisticated electronic warfare systems and other military hardware that enhances its defense capabilities.
Economic and Diplomatic Dimensions
The influence of China in Egypt extends beyond military collaborations. “In recent years, particularly since President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi came to power, China has secured a prominent role in Egypt’s infrastructure projects,” Dekel noted. For example, China is leading the construction of the new administrative capital, a project deemed crucial for Sisi’s vision of transforming Egypt into a global economic center.
Potential Implications of Military Exercises
Regarding the involvement of Chinese fighter jets in the recent exercises, Dekel speculated that this could be a strategic move by Egypt to strengthen its bargaining position in negotiations for expanding its air force. Egypt has been in discussions with multiple nations, including France and Italy, over potential aircraft acquisitions, while simultaneously exploring options with China for stealth fighters.
“This shows a tactical play designed to enhance pricing leverage in negotiations. Ultimately, Egypt may still decide on French jets, but this maneuvering is part of a larger bargaining strategy,” he stated.
Conclusion
In summary, Dekel believes that the military exercise with China should not be viewed as an alarming deviation from Egypt’s traditional military strategy. “Egypt engages in collaborative exercises with nearly every major power–except Israel.” This ongoing pattern reflects a broader strategy of diversification in international military partnerships, particularly in a climate of increasing regional tensions.
As the geopolitical landscape continues to evolve, it remains crucial for all stakeholders to monitor these developments closely, especially as they pertain to Israeli-Egyptian relations amid rising tensions