Abstract

This study investigates terrorist activities in the Sinai Peninsula and Egypt‘s counter-insurgency operations and the implications with Israel. Though terror attacks in the Sinai Peninsula is a fallout of both internal and external factors such as Israeli occupation (1967-1982), the blockade of Gaza strip in 2007, the Egyptian revolution following the 2011 Afro-Arab revolution and 2013 ouster of Egypt‘s President Mohammed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood. In addition, the prevalence of extremist groups seized the opportunity of the 2011 Afro-Arab revolution as an avenue to conduct illicit and violent operations. The main objective of the study is to assess causes of terror attacks in Egyptian it‘s counter operations with implication for Egypt-Israel relations. Using the qualitative research method, the study descriptively analysed data through content gathered along with interviews. The study adopted the frustration-aggression theory of conflict and the classical realist theory of international relations. Findings from the study showed that the proliferation of violent groups in the Sinai is as a result of historical neglect of the local population, providing a fertile ground for terror attacks. Findings further showed that, the tactics of the government cannot be limited to military operations alone as that strategy cannot address root causes of conflict alone. Nevertheless, existence of insecurity gives Israel reason to cooperate with Egypt due to proximity and historical ties. Thus, they both have mutual reason to relate. The study concludes that terror attacks and Egyptian counter-strategies are mutually reinforcing. Therefore, the study recommends the use of ‗Soft power‘ approach.