Cairo, Egypt – February 11, 2024 – Tensions soared in the Middle East on Sunday as Egypt threatened to suspend its historic peace treaty with Israel if Israeli troops push into the densely populated Gaza border town of Rafah. This dramatic escalation comes amid warnings of a “catastrophic” humanitarian crisis and potential mass exodus of refugees if fighting engulfs Rafah.
Key Points:
- Egypt threatens to scrap Camp David Accords: Two Egyptian officials and a Western diplomat confirmed Egypt’s threat to suspend the landmark 1979 peace treaty if Israel invades Rafah. This move would have significant repercussions for regional stability.
- Rafah: flashpoint of potential humanitarian disaster: Over 1.7 million Palestinians, fleeing clashes elsewhere in Gaza, now cram into Rafah, already strained by limited resources. An Israeli offensive could trigger a mass exodus towards the Egyptian border, raising fears of a humanitarian catastrophe and potential strain on Egypt’s resources.
- International community warns against Rafah incursion: The United States, European Union, and human rights groups have urged Israel to avoid a ground operation in Rafah, citing the immense suffering it would inflict on civilians and the potential violation of international law.
- Biden and Netanyahu to discuss: U.S. President Joe Biden and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu are expected to discuss the situation later today. Biden has previously criticized Israel’s military response in Gaza as “over the top.”
- Hamas warns of cease-fire collapse: Hamas, the Palestinian militant group controlling Gaza, threatened to scuttle ongoing ceasefire negotiations if Israel enters Rafah. This could further delay any chance of ending the brutal conflict.
Humanitarian Crisis Looms:
With over 80% of Gaza’s residents displaced and a quarter facing starvation, the potential for further escalation in Rafah raises grave concerns. The United Nations and aid groups emphasize the urgency of a ceasefire and warn of dire consequences if fighting continues.
Egypt’s Dilemma:
Egypt, bound by the peace treaty, faces a delicate balancing act. While opposing an Israeli incursion into Rafah, it also maintains close ties with its neighbor. Suspending the treaty would be a monumental decision with far-reaching implications.
International Pressure Mounts:
The international community, led by the United States and the European Union, is actively pushing for a diplomatic solution to end the conflict and avoid further bloodshed in Rafah.
Uncertain Future:
The situation remains highly volatile, with the fate of Rafah and the broader conflict hanging in the balance. The upcoming call between Biden and Netanyahu and international diplomatic efforts hold the key to preventing further escalation and paving the way for a ceasefire.