Egypt is stepping up as a key player in shaping Gaza’s future after the recent ceasefire. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi hosted a major summit in Sharm el-Sheikh on October 13, 2025, where leaders discussed the Trump Peace Plan and Egypt’s growing role in leadership and security.
Egypt’s Push for Regional Influence
Egypt sees postwar Gaza as a chance to boost its standing in the Middle East. For years, threats from groups like Hamas and ISIS affiliates in Sinai have troubled Cairo. Now, with Hamas weakened, Egypt aims to fill the gap and show strong leadership.
This move fits Egypt’s national goals. Officials in Cairo worry about instability spilling over the border. By taking charge, Egypt can cut off weapon smuggling and build better ties with Israel and the US. Recent talks at the summit highlighted this shift, with al-Sisi pushing for a clear plan that mixes security and rebuilding efforts.
Arab states like the UAE and Jordan back Egypt’s ideas. They want a stable Gaza without extreme groups in power. Egypt’s foreign minister noted that 15 Palestinian experts have been picked to run daily affairs in Gaza. This shows Cairo’s hands-on approach to governance.
Securing the Rafah Border
The Rafah crossing stands out as a hot spot for security. Egypt has tightened controls there to stop smuggling and aid blocks. Since Israel took the Palestinian side in 2024, Egypt has kept its side open but pushed for joint oversight.
Egypt plans to use tech like drones and sensors to watch the border. This builds on past wins against tunnels used by militants. A secure border would help Egypt control Sinai and keep threats out.
Joint patrols with Israel could start soon. US support might add observers to make sure rules are followed. This setup aims to stop any return of armed groups while letting aid flow.
Experts say Egypt fears a power vacuum if Israel pulls back fully. That’s why Cairo is training forces and planning long-term watches.
Training Palestinian Security Forces
Egypt has started training thousands of Palestinians for Gaza’s security needs. Most trainees come from the Palestinian Authority, with some from Gaza’s Fatah group. This effort, reported in late August 2025, aims to replace Hamas with a stable force.
The training happens at Egyptian military sites. It focuses on policing and counter-terror skills. Egypt sees this as key to avoiding chaos after the war.
- Trainees learn crowd control and border patrol.
- Programs include anti-smuggling tactics.
- Some sessions cover working with international teams.
This push ties into broader plans. Egypt wants these forces to handle daily security, letting political talks move forward.
Plans for Governance and Rebuilding
A group of 15 technocrats will manage Gaza’s postwar setup. Egypt’s foreign minister announced this on October 13, 2025, saying they were chosen with input from Israel and others. These experts will focus on services like health and schools.
Egypt’s proposal from March 2025 laid the groundwork. It called for a mix of Palestinian control and outside help. Changes are needed, but it remains a starting point.
| Key Elements of Egypt’s Gaza Plan | Details |
|---|---|
| Security Force | Trained Palestinians to maintain order |
| Border Control | Joint monitoring with tech upgrades |
| Governance | Technocrats handle administration |
| Aid Delivery | Open Rafah for supplies and rebuilding |
Rebuilding Gaza needs billions in aid. Egypt pushes for Arab funds to fix homes and roads. Tony Blair got approval from the Palestinian Authority for a recovery role, adding global weight.
Challenges Ahead for Egypt
Egypt faces hurdles in this role. Weak finances limit how much it can spend on aid. Security fears in Sinai make leaders cautious about opening borders too wide.
Public views in Egypt are mixed. Some praise al-Sisi for mediation, but others want more help for Palestinians. Protests in June 2025 showed frustration over blocked aid marches.
Elections in Egypt add pressure. The Gaza war shifted focus from reforms to security, as noted in July 2025 reports. Al-Sisi must balance home issues with regional goals.
Despite this, Egypt’s moves could reshape the area. By leading on security and leadership, Cairo aims to lock in peace and cut extremist ties.
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