Egypt denies discussing Rafah invasion with Israel

Diaa Rashwan, the head of the State Information Service (SIS), has denied allegations published in the Wall Street Journal that Egypt had discussed with Israel plans for the latter’s invasion of Rafah.

In a statement, Rashwan emphasised Egypt's consistent, firm stance against such an assault, which would lead to significant human casualties and widespread destruction, according to Ahram Online.

These repercussions would be on top of the already extensive suffering endured by the Palestinian people in the Gaza Strip throughout the 200-day-long war, the statement added.

Rashwan also underscored that Egypt had consistently warned the Israeli side through various channels against carrying out such an operation.

Any assault would also harm regional stability.

Despite Israel's plans, Rashwan emphasised Cairo's ongoing efforts to de-escalate the crisis.

These efforts are aimed at reaching a ceasefire, facilitating a prisoner and detainee exchange, and providing sufficient humanitarian aid to Gaza, especially the northern areas.

Cairo’s efforts, Rashwan continued, also address the urgent needs of Gazans, particularly for healthcare, including treatment in Egyptian hospitals.

On April 22, the SIS chief stated that more than 1,500 tunnels between Gaza and Egypt have already been destroyed and the border wall has been strengthened, refuting recurring Israeli allegations that Egypt is a source of weapons smuggled into Gaza.