Egypt and the President of the Palestinian Authority (PA), Mahmoud Abbas, should bear the responsibility of re-opening the Rafah border crossing,said Israel's Minister of Interior, Matan Flanani. He added that if any terrorist enters Gaza, it would be under their responsibility. Flanani said Mr. Abbas realizes his responsibility over the Gaza Strip, which includes any terrorist activities there. Israeli public radio quoted statements by Israeli Finance Minister Yuval Stenets, who reportedly said Egypt's violation of its agreement with Israel and its decision to reopen the Rafah crossing confirmed the necessity of Israel's continuation in the West Bank through military forces and civil communities. Prominent political figures in the Israeli government claimed Egypt's decision to permanently open the Rafah crossing violates the 1979 Peace Treaty. Israeli sources expressed Tel-Aviv's fears that Egypt's decision could lead to the infiltration of terrorist elements to the strip if the borders did not enforce international supervision. Israeli sources said Egypt should bear the responsibility of ensuring security and preventing any terrorism after its individual decision to reopen the Rafah crossing. Israel's deputy Foreign Minister, Danny Ayalon, said countering international terrorism, including Hamas' aggression, is a common aim for Egypt and Israel. He expected the cooperation between Egypt and Israel will continue to achieve common interests.
