Following visits to Cairo by Mossad Chief Dadi Barnea, Shin Bet Head Ronan Bar, and government operations coordinator Maj. Gen. Rasan Alian, Israeli officials express optimism regarding the resolution of issues concerning the Rafah crossing and the Philadelphia axis. Egypt has urged Israel to address its internal disputes first, though no breakthroughs have been achieved.
Sources indicate that these issues are “solvable,” with Egypt playing a crucial role. Another Israeli delegation may continue discussions soon, depending on regional tensions, according to Major General Eliezer Toledano.
Also Read: Australian Warehouse Worker Accused of Stealing $400,000 in ‘Bluey’ Commemorative Coins
UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan’s Farewell Speech
In his farewell speech in New York, Israel’s outgoing UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan criticized the United Nations for its silence on Iranian threats to attack Israel, comparing it to the global silence during the Holocaust. “Iran and its proxies are threatening to attack us from every direction. Those who try to hurt us should know that we will not be deterred. They must know they will pay a heavy price, and our long arm will reach them everywhere,” Erdan stated.
Erdan further emphasized the severity of the threats, saying, “Even today, as Iran openly threatens to ‘punish Israel,’ the UN is silent once again. Iran has understood this silence as a green light to carry on its preparations to attack millions of Israelis. Millions that are waiting right now.”
Drawing a historical parallel, Erdan said, “The UN’s current silence on Iran is reminiscent of the global silence after the Wannsee Conference in 1942 when the Nazi leadership decided on the final solution. They understood this silence as a green light for the murder of millions of Jews.”
Reflecting on his tenure, Erdan expressed pride in his work at what he termed the “hypocritical” organization, particularly during the Israel-Hamas war. “I had the immense, immense privilege of representing Israel at the United Nations. I woke up every morning with a clear mission to prove that Israel is a moral state, a country that cherishes life and peace, a country that wants to protect its citizens like any other country, and a state with the best and most ethical army in the world — the IDF,” he said.
“I did everything I could to raise awareness about the horrors of October 7, about our hostages … and the sexual violence we saw against Israeli women. I did this in every way possible, and with all means at my disposal, yes. It was a way to raise awareness, to shock, to cry out for those who cannot,” Erdan added.
Key Points
- High-Level Cairo Visits: Mossad Chief Dadi Barnea, Shin Bet Head Ronan Bar, and Maj. Gen. Rasan Alian visited Cairo for discussions.
- Optimism About Rafah Crossing and Philadelphia Axis: Israeli officials are optimistic about resolving issues with these areas after the visits.
- Egypt’s Role: Egypt has urged Israel to settle internal disputes first and is seen as playing a key role in resolving the issues.
- Pending Discussions: Another Israeli delegation may continue talks soon, depending on regional tensions, as stated by Major General Eliezer Toledano.
- No Breakthroughs Yet: Although no breakthroughs have been achieved, sources believe the issues are “solvable.”
- UN Ambassador Gilad Erdan’s Farewell Speech: Erdan criticized the UN’s silence on Iranian threats, comparing it to global silence during the Holocaust.
- Iranian Threats: Erdan emphasized that Iran and its proxies are threatening Israel and warned of a heavy price for those who attack Israel.
- Historical Comparison: Erdan likened the UN’s silence on Iran to the silence after the Wannsee Conference in 1942, when the Nazis decided on the final solution.
- Reflection on Tenure: Erdan expressed pride in representing Israel at the UN, particularly during the Israel-Hamas war, and highlighted his efforts to raise awareness about the conflict and related atrocities.
