According to recent reports, the Israeli army is planning a military operation against Rafah, a city in the southern Gaza Strip. This action provoked a strong reaction from Egypt. Because of Rafah's proximity to the Egyptian border, Egypt fears that Israel's actions could lead to an influx of Palestinian refugees into its territory, posing a threat to Egypt's security and stability.
Egypt** has reportedly made it clear that Egypt will intensify the militarization of its borders and possibly use tanks if Palestinian refugees are driven to the Sinai Peninsula. This Egyptian position is seen as a warning to Israel that if Israel's actions lead to a refugee problem, Egypt may take tough measures and may even threaten a long-term peace treaty between Egypt and Israel.
At present, the international community, especially the United States, is actively engaged in mediation in the hope that further escalation of the conflict can be avoided. U.S. Secretary of State Antony Blinken has reached out to parties in the Middle East in the hope of reaching a ceasefire. However, despite the efforts of the international community, the final factor in reaching a ceasefire between the parties at this time depends on the attitude and actions of Hamas.
In general, Israel's military operation against Rafah could provoke a broader conflict in the region, and Egypt's response shows the rise in tensions in the region. The international community is making diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions, but the road ahead remains challenging and uncertain.