Egypt dismisses Israeli concerns over Cairo–Algiers rapprochement

A former senior Egyptian diplomat has rejected growing Israeli concerns over closer ties between Egypt and Algeria, describing the relationship as historic, deep-rooted and a source of strength for Arab national security.

Mohamed Hegazy, former assistant foreign minister of Egypt, said the rapprochement between Cairo and Algiers “terrifies the enemies of the nation”, arguing that any strengthening of relations between Arab capitals inevitably unsettles those who oppose Arab unity.

Hegazy said the Egyptian–Algerian relationship goes far beyond security considerations, resting instead on “profound cultural, historical and civilisational ties”. He stressed that the combined economic, military and security capabilities of the two countries would intimidate what he described as the enemies of the Arab nation and of regional stability.

His comments came in response to reported concerns within Israeli security and strategic circles over Egypt’s expanding role in Arab and African affairs, as highlighted by the Israeli daily Israel Hayom.

Hegazy said Tel Aviv’s unease stems from fears that genuine Arab rapprochement could limit Israeli influence. He accused Israel of destabilising the region through violence and aggression, saying its actions have extended as far as the Horn of Africa, including a violation of the sovereignty of an Arab-African state through recognition of Somaliland.

He described Israel’s policies as unethical and disruptive to regional stability, warning that they fuel further violence and tension. Hegazy said Egyptian and Algerian diplomacy are coordinating closely, both bilaterally and in international forums, to strengthen the region’s ability to confront such challenges.

He added that cooperation between Egypt and Algeria is a source of pride rooted in shared history, civilisation and support for Arab causes, calling for continued coordination to defend common Arab interests.

Hegazy said joint Egyptian–Algerian action would reinforce Arab national security and deepen ties between two nations linked by culture, interests and popular sentiment. He described Algeria as an integral part of the Arab conscience and said it holds a special place in the hearts of Egyptians, who take pride in the shared history between the two countries.

Israel Hayom had previously reported that Egypt’s expanded military presence in Libya and Sudan, along with deeper security coordination with Algeria and Iraq, reflects broader strategic ambitions that could reshape regional balances in ways that do not serve Israeli interests.