Egyptian official says understands Israel's fear of spillover
In rare comment on Israeli stance, advisor to Egypt's interim president says it's natural for Israel to monitor situation in Egypt. 'Israel wants to make sure there is no spillover,' he says
Egypt's interim president's advisor Mustafa Hijazi made an unusual comment on Monday regarding Israel's stance vis-à-vis recent developments in Egypt.
In an interview with Russia's Arabic-language TV channel Russia Al-Youm, he said it was "natural for Israel to monitor events in a neighboring country" as one that wants to make sure there is no "spillover." "It's in the entire region's interest," he said.
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Meanwhile, a state of emergency has been declared in Sinai after 25 policemen were killed in a terror attack. The Egyptian army closed the Nitzana crossing for fear of attacks on Egyptian security personnel.
Security sources were quoted in the al-Masry al-Youm newspaper as saying the attack was in retaliation for the death of 37 supporters of the Muslim Brotherhood who tried to escape a detention center on Sunday and died of tear gas inhalation.
On Sunday, the New York Times reported that Israel is planning to intensify its diplomatic campaign urging Europe and the United States to support the military-backed government in Egypt
Quoting an Israeli official, the paper said that Israeli ambassadors in Washington, London, Paris, Berlin, Brussels and other capitals would lobby foreign ministers. At the same time, leaders here will press the case with diplomats from abroad that the military is the only hope to prevent further chaos in Cairo.
"We’re trying to talk to key actors, key countries, and share our view that you may not like what you see, but what’s the alternative?” the official explained. “If you insist on big principles, then you will miss the essential — the essential being putting Egypt back on track at whatever cost. First, save what you can, and then deal with democracy and freedom and so on.
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