Once a less worrisome border, the demarcation between Israel and Egypt today has become an area of concern for military and intelligence communities. The IDF has responded by establishing the Eilat Brigade, which will focus on the border area. The new brigade replaces the regiment that was responsible for the area earlier and IDF commanders feel the increased manpower will result in a significantly better situation along that border.

HaMevaser adds the battalion is an addition to Operation Hourglass, the construction of a physical border separation between the countries, which is moving ahead at a brisk pace. The construction was expedited due to increasing concerns over African job-seekers making their way into southern Israel illegally, crossing from Sudan via Egypt to Israel. Now the fence contributes to security efforts as well.

An operations officer assigned to the Adom Outpost in the area is quoted by HaMevaser as explaining that “the area is so vast, in the past it took too long for troops to respond”. He explains that now, with a battalion in place, the increase in manpower in the area is significant, improving the IDF’s ability to prevent and respond to events along the border. Lt.-Colonel Carmel is pleased, explaining the new situation permits the IDF to control the area as the new situation demands.

One security source is quoted as explaining the border is over 220km (136 miles) and included are Eilat, a tourist city; a sea port and an airport; and these demand adequate security, which today brings new challenges in light of the new reality in Egypt.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)