October 7 deeply impacted Egypt, however, Cairo has not appeared to excoriate Hamas for the attack, leaving questions about how this all transpired.
Egypt has condemned Israel's seizure of the crossing and closed the passageway to goods on its side.
Foreign Minister Israel Katz has spoken with his German and British counterparts, urging them to pressure Egypt to allow trucks with humanitarian aid to pass into Gaza.
Israel allegedly obtained approval for an operation in Rafah as long as it doesn't strike Iran, according to Qatari reports.
The wall, which is set to span 8 square miles, is being developed as Egyptian officials fear refugees from Gaza will flood into the country after Israel removes Hamas from power.
Both Egypt and Qatar have acted as a mediator for the deal.
This strategic dialogue with Egypt must be institutionalized, with very senior representation on behalf of the Israeli government, accompanied with experts on Arab culture and language.
"The people of Gaza are paying the price for Hamas's stupidity."
Currently, Hamas controls the area along the Egyptian border, and this remains one of the last Hamas strongholds in Gaza.
Israel must be attentive to Egyptian sensitivities, avoid inflammatory statements, and resolve the issue of Philadelphi Route control in agreement, behind closed doors, with Egypt and the US.
JPOST Digital Library
