Former Israeli General Isaac Brick has raised concerns over Egypt potentially evolving into a formidable adversary for Israel. The retired general highlighted Egypt’s strategic developments towards the Sinai Peninsula over the years, with Israel being the primary target. Speaking on “103 FM,” Brick discussed the ongoing combat operations in Gaza and the weakening of the Islamic resistance movement, Hamas.
According to a report by The Jerusalem Post, the program’s host, Ariel Segal, mentioned the Israeli Mossad chief’s role in formulating Israel’s responses to mediator proposals. He expressed apprehensions about the Israeli military’s diminishing capability to confront Hamas, accompanied by an increase in operational errors and mounting pressure from captive families.
In response, Isaac Brick noted that Hamas perceives itself as highly potent and is reluctant to engage in hostage negotiations, leveraging time as an advantage. Brick emphasized that Israel has not significantly eroded Hamas’ capacities, implying the group’s persistence.
Addressing the combat activities in the Philadelphia Corridor and Rafah, Brick acknowledged the awareness of a clandestine crossing beneath the corridor, clarifying that the Israeli military refrained from maintaining a presence due to potential casualties involved in securing the passage. Israel’s hope was for Egyptian intervention in this regard.
However, Brick highlighted a significant issue with Egypt, asserting their reluctance to act decisively and their opposition to Israeli actions in the corridor. Egyptian authorities threatened to halt peace efforts if Israel pursued alternative actions that could lead to a mass influx into Sinai.
Brick concluded by underscoring Egypt’s substantial military capabilities despite its economic challenges, boasting a robust arsenal including thousands of tanks, advanced aircraft, and a formidable navy. He emphasized Egypt’s focus on constructing highways leading to Sinai, indicating Israel as the primary target of these military enhancements. A decision by Egypt to annul peace agreements would signify a shift to hostile relations, leaving Israel with inadequate forces to confront such a scenario.
