Israel is becoming increasingly concerned over the massive build-up of Egyptian forces on the west bank of the Suez Canal. The Egyptian military preparations which include the dispatch of large reenforcements to the canal zone and the deployment of troops in combat ready formations, was reported to the Knesset by Defense Minister Shimon Peres.
He stressed that apart from minor violations, Egypt was observing the letter of its disengagement agreement with Israel. The agreement provides for a limited forces zone on the east bank of the Suez Canal but leaves Egypt free to concentrate armed forces and equipment on the west bank.
The deployment has been accelerated in the past few days leading Israeli observers to believe that the Egyptians are preparing for a swift strike should a new war develop in Sinai. In addition, Israeli observers say, the Egyptians want to demonstrate that they retain a military option, especially when Secretary of State Henry A. Kissinger visits the region again next month.
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