Ex-Israel envoy accuses Egypt of breaching peace deal

David Govrin, Israel’s former ambassador to Cairo, has accused Egypt of breaching the peace treaty between the two countries and warned Tel Aviv about Egypt’s growing military strength, Sama reported, citing Yedioth Ahronoth.

In an interview with the Israeli news site, Govrin claimed that Egypt is investing significant sums in military enhancement and violating the military annexe of the peace agreement.

Govrin served as Israel’s ambassador to Egypt from 2016 to 2019 and, as of November 2021, was Israel’s first ambassador to Morocco before retiring from the Foreign Ministry.

Govrin alleged: “There is no doubt that Egypt is breaching the military annexe of the peace treaty. It has deployed a larger number of military forces in Sinai than permitted under the agreement and beyond what Israel approved, citing its recent requests to combat terrorism in Sinai.”

READ: Israel PM Netanyahu is not visiting Cairo, Egypt source says

He also warned that Egypt is heavily investing in its military capabilities despite its struggling economy and the absence of external threats.

“There is substantial investment in military and civilian infrastructure east of the Suez Canal,” he said. “Israel must take Egypt’s military capabilities into account and not rely on good intentions or shared interests. These can change quickly.”

Discussing Egypt’s attitude towards Israel, Govrin remarked: “On one hand, there is hostility and resentment, as Israel is perceived as an imperialist entity, a foreign implant, and an artificial creation.”

Govrin concluded his interview with Yedioth Ahronoth by saying: “After all these years, and even after 7 October 2023, questions remain about Egypt’s genuine recognition of Israel within its 1948 borders.”

READ: Israeli forces place explosive-laden box near northern Gaza hospital, video shows