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A New Reality on the Egypt-Gaza Border: Analysis of the New Israel-Egypt Agreement

(Washington Institute for Near East Policy) IDF Brig.-Gen. Michael Herzog- For the first time, Israel is relinquishing its control over part of the external perimeter of the Palestinian areas, handing responsibility to a third party. Success or failure will bear important consequences for both Israeli-Egyptian and Israeli-Palestinian relations. With regard to a continued Israeli presence in the Philadelphi Corridor, it was argued that no other party could effectively substitute for Israel's motivation and capability in curbing smuggling. Ultimately, other considerations prevailed including the desire to be able to claim that Israel no longer bears responsibility for Gaza, which required a complete withdrawal of forces. What if Egypt fails to live up to its commitments? After the Israeli departure, chaos erupted along the Egypt-Gaza border. Vast quantities of arms were smuggled into Gaza; it is still not clear that the border has been effectively resealed, although both Egypt and the PA appear committed to sealing it. A porous border will result in a toughened Israeli stance regarding control of other border crossings, making it harder for people and goods to enter Israel from Gaza. The onus now mostly falls on Egypt and the PA. Failure to shape a stable and secure reality along the Egypt-Gaza border would negatively affect the "cold peace"" of Egyptian-Israeli relations.
2005-09-23 00:00:00
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