The Threat of Egypt Nullifying the Peace Treaty with Israel: What Could Happen?

JERUSALEM (AP) — Over 40 years ago, Egyptian President Anwar Sadat and Israeli Prime Minister Menachem Begin reached a historic agreement at Camp David, ushering in a period of peace between the two nations. This accord has been a pillar of stability in an otherwise tumultuous region, weathering multiple conflicts and uprisings. However, recent developments, such as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu's intention to send troops into Rafah, a city near the Egypt-Gaza border, have prompted the Egyptian government to consider the possibility of annulling the treaty. Let’s delve into the origins of the treaty, Egypt's current stance, and the potential consequences of its nullification.

A Landmark Agreement: The Camp David Accords

In 1977, Begin, who was known for his opposition to ceding any land conquered in the 1967 Mideast war, engaged in talks with Sadat, despite their countries having fought four major wars, including the 1973 conflict. The negotiations resulted in the Camp David Accords in September 1978, followed by a peace treaty the next year. The treaty entailed Israel's withdrawal from the Sinai Peninsula, which would be demilitarized by Egypt. Furthermore, it granted Israeli ships passage through the Suez Canal, marking Israel's first peace agreement with an Arab nation.

Egypt's Current Position and Potential Ramifications

Amidst the possibility of Israeli troops entering Rafah, Egyptian officials have indicated that Egypt may consider suspending the peace treaty. Netanyahu's rationale for potential military action in Rafah, as Hamas' purported last stronghold following months of conflict, is met with stark opposition from Egypt. The potential influx of Palestinian refugees seeking aid and safety in Egypt adds further complexity to the situation. The treaty's nullification would lead to increased border tensions and necessitate a reallocation of military resources for both nations.

Implications for Israel and Egypt

The treaty's provisions have limited the number of troops on either side of the border, enabling Israel to focus on other security challenges, such as ongoing skirmishes with Hezbollah in Lebanon and security operations in the West Bank. However, should Egypt void the agreement, Israel would face the prospect of bolstering its forces along the southern border, posing a significant strain on its military capabilities. For Egypt, nullifying the treaty could jeopardize significant U.S. military assistance and exacerbate the country's economic challenges. An Ominous Prospect The potential ramifications of the treaty's nullification extend beyond the immediate border tensions, with the risk of drawing the region into a broader conflict. Paige Alexander, CEO of the Carter Center, emphasized the catastrophic impact that any escalation involving Egypt could have on the entire region. As the situation continues to unfold, the repercussions of a possible annulment of the peace treaty between Egypt and Israel loom large over the Middle East, raising critical questions about regional stability and security.