The potential agreement to reopen the border crossing between Egypt and Hamas “reflects the changing dynamics of the region,” according to Financial Times. “The fact that the Cairo meetings took place illustrates a shift in regional relations. Hamas has become more isolated and is in need of new patrons. The UAE, which has become more assertive in its foreign policy, and Egypt want to counter the influence of Islamist groups and bring stability to a troublesome border. They also want to begin positioning a successor to Mahmoud Abbas, the 82-year-old president of the Palestinian Authority, analysts say.” The agreement is being reached at talks brokered by former Gaza security chief Mohammed Dahlan, who could be positioning himself to a return to Palestinian political life and attempting to build a base for a bid for Palestinian presidency. The FT also adds that Egypt is “upgrading its side of the Rafah border terminal, adding cameras, watchtowers and other security equipment ahead of its reopening.”

Tags: