Egypt in Gaza: A Balancing Act of Responsibility and Sovereignty

Egypt’s connection with the Gaza Strip dates back to the 1948 Arab-Israeli War when Cairo administered the territory until Israel’s occupation in 1967. Despite signing a peace treaty with Israel in 1979, Egypt continued advocating for Palestinian self-determination. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi set a ‘red line’ against any Gazan displacement into Sinai, ensuring Egypt’s defensive role. Cairo coordinated humanitarian aid delivery through Rafah crossing and accused Israel of obstructing assistance.
Following the ceasefire mediation in January 2025, Egypt played a crucial role in phased Israeli withdrawals and aid corridors expansion. Egyptian-Sponsored Sharm El-Sheikh summit solidified its mediator position. Despite criticism for alleged Gaza marginalization, Cairo prioritizes national security, opposing displacement and supporting a two-state solution. It maintains diplomatic, humanitarian support for Gaza while avoiding military involvement.
Egypt’s balanced approach supports Gaza without entanglement, backing reconstruction and ceasefires while upholding sovereignty. Cairo insists on maintaining Palestinian governance and opposes Sinai becoming a refugee haven. It seeks international cooperation for funding and reconstruction, protecting the 1979 peace treaty with Israel. With a pivotal but limited role, Egypt stays committed to Palestine’s cause, navigating carefully to avoid conflict entanglement.