Israel has authorized an Egyptian request to deploy thousands of troops in Sinai. In light of the situation in that country, the Egyptians want to deploy two infantry battalions in el-Arish and Rafiach areas. In line with the peace treaty signed with Israel, troop placement in Sinai requires Israeli approval as the area is designated as a demilitarized zone in the Camp David Agreement.

The battalions will be providing support for special forces that are already operating in Sinai as Egypt seeks to prevent Sinai from becoming a terrorist base similar to Gaza. Israel continues to carefully monitor the situation and while the placement of thousands of infantry soldiers is not ideal, it is an acceptable option considering the events unfolding in Egypt today.

(YWN – Israel Desk, Jerusalem)