Egypt border could become flashpoint, warns IOF official
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Col. Shemer Raviv, commander of the Paran Regional Brigade, described the area as "definitely a front."
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In this Feb. 15, 2012 photo, an Israeli bulldozer works at the site where "Israel" builds a barrier along the border with Egypt in southern Palestine (AP)
The Palestinian-Egyptian border, long regarded as a calm boundary, is now experiencing heightened strain, with Israeli forces warning of potential escalation. While not officially recognized as an active front, the border has become a focal point of increasing tensions.
Speaking to The Times of Israel, Col. Shemer Raviv, commander of the Paran Regional Brigade, described the area as "definitely a front," attributing the instability to alleged smuggling activities. Raviv claimed that smugglers have begun using drones to transport contraband, including drugs and firearms, across the border. However, these allegations emerge alongside growing concerns about the Israeli Occupation Force's (IOF) aggressive actions, which have intensified friction with Egypt.
Border Strains
Relations between Egypt and "Israel" have been further strained by the deliberate operation carried out by Egyptian conscript Mohammad Salah Ibrahim, 23, in June 2023. Ibrahim killed three Israeli soldiers and wounded another before being killed by Israeli forces.
Ibrahim, a border guard serving in Sinai and a resident of Ain Shams in Cairo, was known for his calm demeanor and artistic interests. Reports indicate that he planned his operation meticulously, using his position to cut through a section of the border fence and cross into occupied Palestine. Israeli media reported that he carried two knives and a Quran, executing his attack with precision. Ibrahim had previously expressed his solidarity with Palestine during "Israel's" 2021 aggression on Gaza, writing on Facebook, “God stands by Palestine.”
The Egyptian government has remained reserved about the incident, referring to Ibrahim only as a "security figure" killed while pursuing smugglers. Nevertheless, his actions reverberated across the region, drawing attention to the growing tensions at the border.
In response, the Israeli regime intensified its militarized tactics, tightening open-fire policies and deploying advanced technologies such as drone interception systems. Col. Raviv has speculated about the possibility of smuggling operations evolving into greater threats, such as explosives-laden drones or aircraft capable of carrying people. However, such claims remain unverified and have been criticized as a pretext for further militarization.
Read more: Two Egyptian soldiers martyred in clashes with Israelis: Reports
Despite occasional coordination with Egyptian forces, Raviv acknowledged ongoing challenges, including insufficient troops and intelligence along the border. Critics argue that "Israel's" aggressive posture, under the guise of addressing alleged security threats, is exacerbating tensions and destabilizing the once relatively peaceful boundary.
