Re: Parsha Observation - From Chana Tolchin

Maybe your parallel could be another indication of the role of zechut avot in the Yetziat Mitzrayim/midbar process. Avraham was thrown into the kivshan haeish immediately after he smashed the idols (publicly demonstrating his belief in Hashem), so when Hashem saved him we could see that as a reward for his emunah. Bnei Yisrael didn't really do anything to merit Kriat Yam Suf, and before Hashem split the sea Bnei Yisrael were even questioning their trust in Hashem and Moshe. Even after Bnei Yisrael doubted Hashem, Hashem gave them a nes anyway – because He wanted to fulfill the brit He made with Avraham. This idea doesn’t really take the details you pointed out into account, but I think the overall connection recalls the fact that zechut avot plays a huge part in the relationship between Hashem and Bnei Yisrael.