ABSTRACT
I have dealt in this book with numerous aspects of the complex relationship between Israel and Egypt throughout almost 20 years. I have tackled an ocean of details basing my findings on my personal experience. Using the scalpel of diplomatic analysis, I have tried to point out the general trends, interests and considerations which chart Egypt's course and mold its outlook on its leadership vocation in the region and its role in the peace process. I have also stressed the modus operandi that it has consciously adopted in its interaction with Israel and its approach to Israel's integration in the region. The picture that emerges from my analysis is, to my great sorrow, far from being heart-warming. It evokes wonder about the past and anxiety for the future and casts doubt on the cleverness of some of Israel's reactions to Egypt's behavior. Some readers may reach the conclusion that Israel struck a bad bargain when it restituted to Egypt tangible assets (the whole of Sinai - a territory four times the size of Israel) in return for what is commonly defined as a cold peace. This conclusion seems to be justified in the light of the fact that Egypt continues to spearhead the anti-Israeli diplomatic offensive, wantonly and openly violates most of the agreements it has signed, systematically prevents the normal flow of relations, fans hatred and anti-Semitism and feeds Israel with numerous affronts.
