Israel has urged the United States to exert diplomatic pressure on Egypt to halt its ongoing military expansion, which is perceived as a direct threat to Tel Aviv’s security. This call comes amid recent developments where Egypt has deployed the advanced Chinese-made HQ-9B surface-to-air missile system in the strategically sensitive Sinai Peninsula.
The HQ-9B, a sophisticated air defense system comparable to Russia’s S-300, significantly boosts Egypt’s anti-aircraft capabilities, raising concerns in Israel about the shifting military balance in the region. Tel Aviv fears that this deployment could embolden Cairo’s military posture and complicate security arrangements along the volatile border areas.
In response, Israeli officials have appealed to Washington to engage with Cairo and urge restraint in its military activities, stressing the importance of maintaining stability and preventing an arms escalation that could destabilize the already fragile security landscape in the Middle East.
This development marks a notable moment in the complex relations between Israel and Egypt, both long-time peace treaty partners, as regional tensions rise and geopolitical interests evolve. The US, a key ally to both nations, finds itself in a delicate position, balancing support for Israel’s security concerns while managing its strategic partnership with Egypt. Observers note that how Washington responds to Israel’s request could significantly influence the future dynamics of military cooperation and diplomacy in the region.
