Cairo Sets Contingency Plan for Palestinians Fleeing Rafah Offensive

Amid concerns over a potential Israeli offensive into Rafah that could force Palestinians across the border, Egypt is reportedly taking precautionary steps. Despite official denials, four sources told Reuters that Cairo is preparing an area near the Gaza border to accommodate a possible influx of Palestinians fleeing the conflict. This move regarding the displacement of Palestinians into Sinai, described as a contingency plan, is a scenario Egypt and other Arab states like Jordan have deemed unacceptable.

The United States has echoed this stance, opposing any forced displacement from Gaza. While one source remains optimistic that ongoing ceasefire talks could avert such a crisis, Egypt’s actions suggest preparations for a worst-case scenario. Security sources detailed the establishment of basic facilities in a desert area for potential temporary shelter, underlining the sensitivity surrounding this issue.

Israel’s announcement of plans to target Hamas’s stronghold in Rafah, where a significant portion of Gaza’s population has sought refuge, has intensified international worries. The United Nations has criticized the notion of evacuating Gazans to “safe places” within the strip as unrealistic, fearing a spill-over into Egypt.

These developments are putting additional strain on the already tense relations between Egypt and Israel, despite their long-standing peace agreement.