Number: RL34346
Title: The Egypt-Gaza Border and its Effect on Israeli-Egyptian Relations
Authors: Jeremy M. Sharp, Foreign Affairs, Defense, and Trade Division 
Abstract: Since Israel unilaterally dismantled its settlements and withdrew its troops from the Gaza Strip in August 2005, it has repeatedly expressed concern over the security of the Egypt-Gaza border. Israel claims that ongoing smuggling of sophisticated weaponry into the Gaza Strip could presumably shift the balance of power in Hamas's favor. Israel also asserts that Egypt is not adequately sealing its side of the border,citing the recent breakthrough of hundreds of thousands of Palestinians who rushed into Egypt on January 23, 2008.
Pages: 12
Date: February 1, 2008