Egypt Sets Conditions for Expanded Role in Post-War Gaza

Egypt is prepared to take a more active and influential role in Gaza’s post-war arrangements, but Cairo says any expanded involvement depends on Israel fulfilling its commitments under the second phase of the ceasefire agreement.

An informed Egyptian source told The New Arab that Egypt could increase its support in several areas, including humanitarian assistance, reconstruction, logistics and the training of Palestinian police officers.

However, Cairo has made clear that it does not intend to assume direct military or security responsibility for the Gaza Strip.

According to the source, Egypt could provide limited support to a proposed international peace or stabilisation force, but does not want its involvement to develop into a large-scale Egyptian military presence in Gaza.

Israel’s Withdrawal a Key Condition

Egypt considers Israel’s implementation of its obligations under the second phase of the ceasefire agreement a fundamental condition for any greater Egyptian involvement.

The source stressed that an expanded Egyptian role cannot replace the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza or the establishment of conditions necessary for a stable transitional phase.

“Egypt’s vision is based on Palestinian administration of the Strip, while providing the support needed to ensure the success of the transitional arrangements,” the source said.

Egypt’s potential contribution could include training Palestinian police, facilitating the delivery of humanitarian aid and reconstruction materials, and supporting early recovery efforts.

A report submitted to the UN Security Council by the Gaza-specific “Peace Council” in May also identified Egypt as a key partner in training Palestinian police and said the proposed international force would coordinate with both Egypt and Israel.

Focus on Reconstruction and Humanitarian Support

Egyptian officials believe Cairo’s most important contribution to post-war Gaza would be outside the security sector.

The country is expected to focus heavily on reconstruction, early recovery and ensuring the entry of essential goods and materials needed to restore basic services and civilian life in the war-damaged territory.

Former Egyptian Assistant Foreign Minister Raghda Ahmed Hassan said the second phase of the Gaza agreement would require Egypt to move beyond its traditional role as a mediator and take a more direct part in post-war arrangements.

He said Egypt has a direct interest in developments in Gaza because of its national security concerns and its support for Palestinian rights.

Meanwhile, former Assistant Foreign Minister Mohamed Hegazy said Egypt was already moving toward a more influential role in implementing the second phase of the agreement.

He said Cairo’s role was no longer limited to mediation, but increasingly involved helping translate agreements and proposed roadmaps into practical steps aimed at consolidating the ceasefire and preparing for Gaza’s post-war transition.

For Egypt, however, any deeper involvement remains closely tied to Israel’s compliance with its commitments, particularly the withdrawal of Israeli forces from Gaza.

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