Egyptian security officials said that Egyptian military officials and representatives of the Libyan government forces have met several times in the last two months in Cairo and Marsa Matruh, during which Egypt offered to train Libyan forces fighting armed factions.
An intelligence official speaking on condition of anonymity said Egypt has information as to the whereabouts of the militants stationed in Libya, their numbers and the type of weapons they have.
He added that there is an ideological relationship between ISIS and militants in Libya and Egypt.
He said Egypt told the former general of the Libyan army, Khalifa Haftar, that it is willing to help him deal with the militants in Derna, provide him with their locations and train his men on how to fight them.
While the cabinet spokesman declined to comment on the matter, the spokesman for the Libyan chief of staff confirmed that Egypt offered to train Libyan forces.
Two Egyptian National Security officials said Egypt has contemplated the possibility of cross-border attacks several months ago.
Another Egyptian National Security official said Egypt would not supply arms because the Libyans have more than enough.
He pointed out that there are indications that ISIS may have begun expanding its relationship with the Ansar Bait al-Maqdis group, as was reported by a member of the group that was arrested by the Egyptian authorities. He said a fighter in Iraq called him and sent him money.
Edited translation from Al-Masry Al-Youm
