Remarks by Israeli Finance Minister Bezalel Smotrich about Egypt and the Sinai Peninsula have drawn a reaction from prominent public figures in Egypt. Journalists, lawmakers and internet content creators said Sinai is a red line when it comes to Egypt’s sovereignty.
In a video interview ahead of the anniversary of Egypt’s victory in the October 6, 1973 War, Smotrich said the Sinai Peninsula could cease to exist if Egypt attacked Israel. The Israeli minister also asked what could prevent Egypt from attacking Israel.
Strong response from Egypt
Ahmed Moussa, host of the “Under My Responsibility” program broadcast on Egypt’s Sada El Balad television, criticized Smotrich’s remarks during a live broadcast. Moussa argued that any “crazy adventure” against Egypt would result in the end of Israel’s existence.
Claiming that around 120 million Egyptians were ready to die for their homeland, Moussa said any attack on Egypt would be met with a response. Saying that Sinai was a red line for Egypt, Moussa stated that the Egyptian Armed Forces were ready to defend the country under all circumstances.
Egyptian journalist and lawmaker Mustafa Bakri also criticized Smotrich in a post on X. Bakri claimed that the Israeli minister had threatened to seize Sinai and said the Egyptian army was ready to confront any attempt targeting national security.
Israeli remarks draw reaction on television
Amr Adeeb, known for his proximity to the Egyptian administration, opposed Smotrich’s remarks on the “El-Hekaya” program on MBC Egypt. Adeeb argued that Israel itself would face severe consequences before any possible Israeli attempt to push Egypt into the sea.
Referring to Tel Aviv, Ben Gurion Airport and Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, Adeeb said the distance between Egypt and Israel was very short.
Egyptian internet content creator Louay el-Khatib also criticized Smotrich for making irrational remarks without a political understanding. El-Khatib said the Israeli minister should first learn about the subject he was discussing.
Sinai’s legal status
Smotrich’s remarks are being assessed in the context of the 1978 Camp David Peace Agreement between Egypt and Israel. Under the agreement, Israel completely withdrew its troops from the Sinai Peninsula, which it had occupied in 1967, and the territory was returned to Egyptian sovereignty.
The Sinai Peninsula has the status of a demilitarized zone under the agreement. Egyptian authorities have not yet issued an official statement on Smotrich’s remarks.
