Israeli Prime Minister Netanyahu has requested the U.S. to pressure Egypt to reduce its military activities in Sinai, citing violations of the 1979 peace treaty and concerns over increased tensions amid the Gaza conflict, with Egypt denying the allegations.
Egypt's plans for a luxury resort near Mount Sinai, including hotels and villas, have sparked controversy and protests from locals and cultural preservationists, who fear irreparable damage to the sacred site and local communities, despite government claims of promoting sustainable tourism.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi stated that Egyptians would vehemently reject any forced displacement of Palestinians into Sinai, warning that it would turn the peninsula into a base for attacks against Israel. Al-Sisi's comments came amidst concerns that Israel's bombardment and siege of Gaza could lead to the displacement of its 2.3 million residents. Egypt firmly rejects resolving the Palestinian issue through military means or forced displacement, emphasizing the need to protect the rights of Palestinians. Jordan has also expressed concerns about forced displacement, while Egypt has been attempting to channel humanitarian aid to Gaza through the Rafah crossing, which has been rendered inoperable due to Israeli bombardments.