Explorer Documents Historic Border Marker and Rare Plant Near Egypt Border

Documentary filmmaker Yitzhak Carmeli has released a video exploring the challenging terrain of southern Israel along the Egyptian border. The film focuses on Border Stone 87, a historical marker dating back to the British Mandate era, situated atop a steep cliff in a complex landscape.

Carmeli showcases the modern border fence constructed in the area, noting that until about 14 years ago, the region was completely open, allowing dozens and hundreds of infiltrators to cross nightly. Today, the fence stretches along the difficult mountainous route, traversing deep, steep ravines. Carmeli explains how the fence divides the terrain, stating, "The fence goes right down into the depth of the wadi and crosses it, so half of Gishron Wadi is in Israeli territory and its continuation passes into Egypt."

Beyond the historical and geographical survey, Carmeli sought to relocate a rare plant he encountered in the area 35 years prior: an Egyptian caper bush known for its impressive fruits. However, due to changes in the terrain, the construction of the fence, and the steep cliffs, direct access to the precise location is no longer possible.