NextFin news, Egyptian officials issued a stern warning to Israel on Saturday against any attempts to assassinate Hamas leaders on Egyptian soil, specifically in Cairo. They declared that such actions would be regarded as a declaration of war and would provoke a forceful response from Egypt. This warning comes amid reports that Israel has been plotting to target Hamas leadership in Cairo for some time, following its recent air strikes on Hamas officials in Doha, Qatar.
A high-level Egyptian security source told Middle East Eye that intelligence reports indicate Israel's ongoing plans to assassinate Hamas leaders residing in Cairo. The source emphasized that Egypt had already foiled earlier assassination attempts during ceasefire negotiations held in the city over the past two years.
Earlier this week, Israel conducted 12 air strikes on residential buildings in Doha, targeting senior Hamas leader Khalil al-Hayya and other political figures as they met to discuss a US ceasefire proposal. While Hayya survived, his son and four lower-ranking Hamas members were killed, along with a member of the Qatari security forces.
In response to these strikes, Egyptian officials condemned the attacks as violations of international law and Egypt's sovereignty. The security source stated, "Any attempt on the lives of Hamas leaders on Egyptian soil would be considered by Egypt as a violation of its sovereignty and, accordingly, a declaration of war by Israel, which we would not hesitate to retaliate against." The source also noted that such an attack would undermine Egypt's regional prestige and strategic status.
Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu had publicly threatened to target Hamas leaders in other countries following the Doha air strikes. He warned nations harboring Hamas members to expel them or face Israeli action.
Egyptian military officials clarified that Israeli aircraft involved in the Doha strikes did not cross Egyptian airspace, which is protected by Chinese air defense systems deployed in the Sinai Peninsula bordering Israel. This makes unauthorized air incursions into Egyptian airspace highly unlikely.
Egypt's warning underscores the heightened tensions in the region following Israel's recent military actions against Hamas leadership abroad. The situation remains volatile as Israel continues to pursue its campaign against Hamas amid ongoing conflict in Gaza.
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