El-Sisi: Netanyahu Questioned Egypt's Military Build-Up and Arms Purchases
Egyptian President el-Sisi revealed that Prime Minister Netanyahu questioned Egypt's military build-up, while el-Sisi stressed that Cairo's strength poses no threat.
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi revealed that Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu previously expressed concern over Egypt's military build-up, directly asking why Cairo continues to acquire weaponry. El-Sisi emphasized that Egypt's military strengthening is not directed against Israel, but is intended to ensure national security and preserve peace in a volatile region.
Dialogue on Military Build-Up
Speaking at a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Police Academy in New Capital, el-Sisi recounted Netanyahu's direct inquiries. "Netanyahu is responsible for his country, and he knows very well that Egypt will never pose a threat," el-Sisi said. "He asked me: 'Why are you arming yourself? Why are you purchasing weapons?'"
"I told him: 'I have never viewed Israel's strength as a threat to me, and I believe you should also view our strength with the understanding that Egypt's power poses no threat to you,'" el-Sisi stated.
Regional Stability and the Palestinian Issue
El-Sisi explained that Cairo views a strong military as a central component of maintaining stability. He also linked these remarks to diplomatic relations with Israel and the Palestinian issue, noting that since 2013 he has repeatedly told Netanyahu that establishing a Palestinian state is the key to regional stability and Israel's full integration into the Middle East.
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Egypt remains committed to the peace treaty with Israel.
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Cairo denies having any hidden ambitions regarding Israeli territory.
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Tensions persist over military deployments in the Sinai Peninsula.
