Egypt Rejects New Israeli Ambassador Amid Gaza Conflict

CAIRO, Egypt — Egypt will not appoint a new ambassador to Israel while the military conflict in Gaza continues, a senior Egyptian official told Haaretz on Sunday.

Amira Oron, Israel’s last ambassador to Egypt, explained that Egypt also refuses to accept the letter of credence of Uri Rothman, Israel’s designated ambassador to Cairo. Oron stated, “The longer the war goes on and the larger the military operations, the greater the pressure in Gaza, which could harm Egypt’s interests.”

Oron, who served as ambassador until last October, pointed out that the ongoing conflict creates unrest within the Egyptian public and the broader Muslim community. She emphasized that Egypt’s perspective is that the war could negatively affect its own security.

Earlier on Sunday, the Qatari newspaper Al-Araby Al-Jadeed reported that Egypt’s decision to withhold ambassadorial nominations is linked to Israel’s expansive military actions in Gaza. Although Oron noted that the absence of ambassadors does not indicate a degradation of diplomatic relations, it carries symbolic weight.

“While the absence of ambassadors is not ideal, the embassies in Cairo and Tel Aviv are still coordinating on practical matters,” Oron clarified.

Both Oron and her Egyptian counterpart completed their terms recently, with the latter returning to Cairo a few months ago. The Egyptian Ministry of Foreign Affairs considers the role of the ambassador to Israel, traditionally sensitive, as one that requires careful navigation amidst evolving regional dynamics and domestic pressures.

Reports suggest that Egypt’s refusal to accept Rothman’s credentials is part of a broader reaction to Israel’s approach to managing the ongoing war, signaling a potential shift in diplomatic relations during a critical time.

The appointment process for ambassadors typically involves a formal request for approval from the host nation, known as “agrément.” It appears that Egypt is withholding its response as a sign of disapproval regarding Israel’s military strategy in Gaza.

In summary, the tensions between Egypt and Israel have escalated since the war’s outset, complicating diplomatic appointments and further straining bilateral relations.