Egypt Constructs Wall and Prepares for Israeli Offensive Near Gaza Strip, Satellite Images Show

Satellite images have revealed that Egypt is constructing a wall and leveling land near its border with the Gaza Strip, anticipating a planned Israeli offensive targeting the border city of Rafah. The images, analyzed by The Associated Press, show ongoing construction on the wall, located along the Sheikh Zuweid-Rafah Road, approximately 3.5 km west of the Gaza border. The construction raises concerns about a potential mass expulsion of displaced Palestinians into Egyptian territory as Israeli forces continue their fifth-month battle with the militant group Hamas. Despite Israel’s Defense Minister asserting that there is no intention to push Palestinian civilians across the border into Egypt, the preparations on the Egyptian side suggest otherwise, potentially threatening the 1979 peace deal between Egypt and Israel.

The Egyptian government has not publicly acknowledged the construction, and the Foreign Ministry did not respond to requests for comments. The satellite images indicate cranes, trucks, and precast concrete barriers being set up along the road, creating a high-security area near the Gaza border. There are concerns that this construction is in preparation for the reception of Palestinian refugees in the event of a mass exodus. The situation adds complexity to regional stability and international relations, as Egypt’s actions could impact the peace accord with Israel. The ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas, coupled with the potential displacement of Palestinians, has raised alarms globally, requiring careful diplomatic navigation to prevent a humanitarian crisis.