Egyptian army continue Rafah tunnel closures

General Ahmed Wasfi of the Egyptian Second Field Army has met a number of Mujahideen and town elders in Ismailia to discuss growing security concerns in the region. The meeting is in response to reports of armed crowds marching through Rafah and Sheikh Zuwaid, brandishing automatic weapons. Wasfi confirmed that police will occupy positions in both of the cities as soon as possible. The meeting was conducted within the framework of coordination and continuous communication between armed forces and people of Sinai, to identify their demands and needs, and to find appropriate solutions for their problems. Wasfi called for support for the armed forces in their endeavor to resolve problems for locals. He also reiterated the military’s commitment to closing the tunnels used for smuggling arms into Gaza.   It was reported that the general disclosed that the minister of defence had approved the establishment of 50 residential buildings in El Arish, and the drilling of 20 wells in the area. Sheikh Awad Iboshikhh said that the Mujahideen and chieftains of Sinai have stressed their appreciation to the armed forces for their efforts to help reconstruct the region. According to Iboshikhh some of the demands of the people included defining constituencies in the area and ensuring all regions had representation. They also demanded the release of prisoners, provision of basic services and the creation of a third province. The general has stressed the importance of open communication and cooperation in helping return stability to Sinai.