Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak dismisses Israeli criticism of the looming missile deal between Egypt and the United States. Mubarak said that the deal, which involves over 50 anti-ship missiles at a cost of $400 million, would not change the balance of power in the region. The missiles have a range of 150 kilometers, and will be able to hit land targets on the Israeli coast.
Some American lawmakers have expressed concern that Israel could lose its military advantage if the deal goes through. The State Department feels that the sale would help Egypt protect the Suez Canal and even US warships in the region. But California Rep. Tom Lantos said recently, \"I see no compelling reason for Egypt to receive these sophisticated anti-ship missiles given that Egypt faces no formal external threat.\" Mubarak said today that he is confident the deal would go through.
Some American lawmakers have expressed concern that Israel could lose its military advantage if the deal goes through. The State Department feels that the sale would help Egypt protect the Suez Canal and even US warships in the region. But California Rep. Tom Lantos said recently, \"I see no compelling reason for Egypt to receive these sophisticated anti-ship missiles given that Egypt faces no formal external threat.\" Mubarak said today that he is confident the deal would go through.