Netanyahu Warns of Egypt’s Growing Military Might Amidst Historic Gas Deal with Israel

In a surprising twist that has raised eyebrows across the Middle East, Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu has sounded the alarm over Egypt’s expanding military capabilities, urging close monitoring to prevent what he calls an “excessive buildup” of power. This comes despite the strong ties between the two nations, highlighted by a massive $35 billion gas deal signed just months ago.

According to reports from Israeli media, including the daily Israel Hayom and Anadolu Agency, Netanyahu made these remarks during a closed-door meeting of the Knesset Foreign Affairs and Defence Committee on Thursday. “The Egyptian army is building its strength, and this needs to be monitored,” Netanyahu was quoted as saying. “We have relations with Egypt, but we must prevent an excessive buildup of military power.”

The comments were part of broader discussions on the sensitive nature of Israel-Egypt relations, with sources indicating concerns over Egypt’s military infrastructure developments in the Sinai Peninsula. Israeli officials have expressed fears that these could include offensive capabilities, potentially violating the 1979 peace treaty between the two countries. Despite the warning, Netanyahu emphasized the importance of maintaining coordination with regional partners.

Adding to the geopolitical intrigue, Netanyahu also voiced uncertainty about the final decision US President Donald Trump might take regarding Iran. “Coordination with Washington is at the highest possible level,” he reportedly said, but acknowledged doubts over Trump’s ultimate stance on Tehran. This comes amid ongoing tensions in the region, with Iran’s nuclear ambitions remaining a flashpoint for Israel and its allies.

The warning stands in stark contrast to the recent economic cooperation between Israel and Egypt. As earlier reported by NaijaChoice News, the two countries signed a landmark natural gas agreement in December 2025, valued at approximately $35 billion (NIS 112 billion). Under the deal, Israel will export over 130 billion cubic meters of natural gas from its Leviathan field to Egypt via pipeline until 2040. Netanyahu described it as “the largest gas deal in Israel’s history,” with deliveries set to begin in phases from the first half of 2026.

The agreement, involving US energy giant Chevron and Israeli partners NewMed and Ratio, was initially signed in August 2025 but faced delays amid political discussions. Egyptian officials have downplayed any political dimensions, insisting it’s a purely commercial transaction. However, analysts suggest underlying tensions from the ongoing Gaza conflict may have contributed to the hold-up, underscoring the fragile balance between economic gains and security concerns.

For Africa, this development spotlights Egypt’s rising role as a military and energy powerhouse on the continent. As Nigeria continues to navigate its own energy sector challenges, including gas exports and regional security, observers note that shifts in North African dynamics could have ripple effects on broader African stability.

Netanyahu’s statements have sparked reactions online and in diplomatic circles. Social media users on platforms like Instagram have debated the implications, with some accusing Israel of hypocrisy given its own military dominance. Meanwhile, in a related session, the Israeli leader deflected responsibility for the October 7, 2023, failures, blaming the military and past governments.