Egypt’s Mounting Challenges: Economic Crisis and International Strain Under Sisi
Amid economic turmoil and allegations of treaty violations in Sinai, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi faces growing domestic unrest and wavering international support.
Watan-Challenges continue to mount for Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi amid crippling domestic and international crises. For the first time, the U.S. Congress has discussed Egypt’s violations of the peace treaty with Israel, citing Egyptian military activities in Sinai that have been described as a strategic threat to the border. These discussions come at a time when Egypt is facing an unprecedented economic crisis, with rising debts and growing public anger over deteriorating living conditions.
Recent Israeli reports have alarmed Washington, with Hebrew media accusing the Egyptian military of breaching agreements signed in the 1970s through logistical activities in Sinai. This has prompted Republican lawmakers to call for a reassessment of U.S. aid to Egypt.
On the other hand, Egypt finds itself increasingly dependent on Gulf states, which have come to hold significant influence over its economic policies.
Sisi is not only grappling with challenges to international support but also with widespread public discontent over rising prices and worsening economic conditions. At the same time, concerns are growing about potential security threats along the desert border.
Notably, the United States recently redirected $90 million in military aid from Egypt to Lebanon, reflecting declining U.S. trust in the Egyptian regime amid reports of controversial military maneuvers.
With Egypt’s debt reaching record levels, pressure is mounting on Sisi from both an angry domestic public and wary international allies. These recent developments could lead to a redefinition of Egypt’s relationship with its traditional allies, as the economy continues to suffer from near-total paralysis.