In a dramatic turn of events, Egyptian intelligence surreptitiously altered the terms of a ceasefire proposal that had been previously approved by Israel, derailing a potentially pivotal deal. According to CNN Reports, this agreement could have facilitated the release of Israeli hostages and Palestinian prisoners, setting the stage for a temporary cessation of hostilities in Gaza. The underhanded changes by Egypt have led to widespread frustration and accusations among key stakeholders, including the US, Qatar, and Israel.
The Initial Agreement
Earlier this month, Israel had signed off on a ceasefire agreement brokered by multiple parties, including the US and Qatar. The agreement aimed to establish a temporary truce, allowing for the exchange of hostages and prisoners. This proposal was seen as a significant step towards de-escalating the ongoing conflict in Gaza, with all parties involved under the impression that they were on the brink of a breakthrough.
Egypt’s Secret Alterations
Unbeknownst to the other mediators, Egyptian intelligence made unilateral changes to the ceasefire terms. These modifications, which have only now come to light, introduced more of Hamas’ demands into the framework. Ahmed Abdel Khalek, a senior deputy to Egypt’s intelligence chief Abbas Kamel, orchestrated this deceptive manoeuvre. Abdel Khalek reportedly presented one version of the agreement to Israel and a different one to Hamas, without informing the other mediators.
Discovery and Fallout
The deception was uncovered when Hamas announced a ceasefire on May 6, based on the altered terms that differed from what the US and Qatar had understood to be the final proposal. This revelation sparked outrage and confusion among the mediators. CIA Director Bill Burns, who had been leading the US efforts to secure the ceasefire, was particularly incensed. Sources indicate that Burns, typically reserved, was visibly furious upon learning of Egypt’s actions, feeling both embarrassed and undermined.
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The changes in Egypt caused a significant rift among the involved parties. US officials, including Secretary of State Antony Blinken, expressed strong disapproval of the Egyptian move. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu reiterated that Israel could not agree to terms that would allow Hamas to regroup and continue its attacks. The Israeli intelligence service Mossad, upon being informed of the changes by Qatari Prime Minister Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim Al Thani, worked alongside Burns to try and salvage the deal.
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Motives Behind Egypt’s Actions
The motives behind Egypt’s covert alterations remain unclear, raising questions about its role and intentions in the mediation process. Some speculate that Egypt sought to appease Hamas and secure its cooperation by including more of their demands. However, this approach backfired, as it alienated Israel and the other mediators, bringing the negotiations to a standstill.
With the ceasefire talks now at an impasse, the likelihood of reaching a new agreement in the near future appears slim. The original optimism that had surrounded the negotiations has dissipated, replaced by skepticism and mistrust. The US and Qatar are expected to take on more prominent roles in any future discussions, with a wary eye on Egypt’s involvement.
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Broader Implications
The disruption caused by Egypt’s actions has broader implications for regional stability and the ongoing conflict in Gaza. As military operations continue to escalate, particularly in areas like Rafah, the humanitarian situation worsens, and the prospects for a peaceful resolution seem increasingly remote. The Biden administration’s efforts to broker peace are now under greater scrutiny, with renewed calls for a more transparent and cohesive strategy.
Egypt’s covert sabotage of the ceasefire deal has not only derailed a crucial opportunity for peace but has also exposed the complexities and competing interests in Middle Eastern diplomacy. As the involved parties regroup and reassess their strategies, the path to a lasting peace in Gaza remains fraught with challenges and uncertainties.
