Egypt says guard killed in shooting on Rafah border, Israel and Egypt investigating

Egypt’s military said Monday a border guard was killed in a “shooting” in the Rafah border area with Gaza, where Israeli forces are deployed, adding that it had launched a probe.

“The Egyptian armed forces, through the competent authorities, are investigating a shooting incident in the Rafah border area which led to the martyrdom of a guard,” a military statement said.

Israel’s military had earlier said it was investigating reports of an exchange of fire between Israeli and Egyptian soldiers.

“A few hours ago [Monday], a shooting incident occurred on the Egyptian border. The incident is under review and discussions are being held with the Egyptians,” the Israeli military said in a statement.

Israel seized control of the Rafah border crossing from the Gaza side of the border earlier this month as it stepped up its military offensive in the area, drawing criticism from Egypt.