Diaa Rashwan, head of the State Information Service (SIS), confirmed that Egypt has never discussed any plans with Israel for a ground invasion of Rafah city, refuting recent reports published in a U.S. newspaper.

Rashwan emphasized Egypt's firm rejection of any such plans, citing concerns about potential massacres, heavy human losses, and widespread destruction in the region.

He highlighted Egypt's repeated warnings to Israel against the proposed invasion, stressing that Egypt and the international community stand united in opposition to such actions.

Rashwan underscored Egypt's ongoing efforts to secure a ceasefire and prisoners' swap agreement in Gaza, as well as its commitment to providing humanitarian aid and medical assistance to the embattled region.

Regarding recent allegations by Israeli officials regarding smuggling operations from Egyptian territory into Gaza, Rashwan dismissed them as false, including claims about tunnels between the two borders.

He called on Israel to respect the peace treaty and refrain from making statements that could strain bilateral relations, urging anyone questioning Egypt's ability to protect its borders to cease such allegations.

The statement reaffirmed Egypt's determination to play a positive and central role in resolving regional issues, asserting that false allegations would not deter Egypt from fulfilling its domestic, regional, and international responsibilities. (ILKHA)