Diaa Rashwan, the head of Egypt’s State Information Service, emphasized that Egypt’s response to Israel will not be limited to symbolic actions such as withdrawing or expelling ambassadors. In a statement on the “ON E” channel, he mentioned that Egypt’s response would be far from merely symbolic if Egyptian national security or territories were threatened, or if there were attempts to undermine the Palestinian cause.
Rashwan asserted Egypt’s clear stance on not tolerating any threats to its national security or the Palestinian issue. He highlighted the unity within Egypt regarding its position against Israeli aggression towards Gaza, stating that the Egyptian people, government, and state would not forgive or permit such actions.
He further noted that Egypt has the means to defend its security and that while symbolic actions like expelling ambassadors are not off the table, more substantial measures have been communicated to Israel and those concerned, hinting at potential repercussions for any hostile movements.
Rashwan expressed astonishment at the actions of some Israeli government ministers and questioned how Israel could provoke or challenge Egypt, the largest and most capable state in the Middle East, to confront any threats. He criticized Israel’s attempts to achieve its failed objectives, whether in undermining the resistance, freeing detainees, or securing Gaza for Israel, even at the cost of Palestinian lives or straining relations with Egypt to advance negotiation processes.
He concluded by stating that no possibility of compromising Egypt’s security and land can be ruled out, expressing confidence in Egypt’s political leadership and military capabilities.
The Israeli military has intensified its attacks on Rafah in southern Gaza, causing widespread destruction and triggering mass evacuations. Residential buildings and camps have been leveled, making no place in Gaza safe from bombardment. This has led tens of thousands of Palestinians to flee towards the south of Gaza, seeking refuge from the ongoing conflict. The United Nations humanitarian agency OCHA reported that an estimated 30,000 additional Palestinians moved southwards through a corridor opened by the Israeli military. However, even Rafah, where civilians were urged to evacuate, has been targeted by Israeli attacks.
Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has requested the military to develop a plan for evacuating civilians from Rafah while also aiming to defeat the remaining Hamas fighters in the area. This comes amid concerns raised by international observers and countries regarding the humanitarian impact of such offensive actions. Germany’s Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock has expressed opposition to an Israeli military offensive in Rafah, emphasizing the dire situation in the already overcrowded area.
