International
US Releases $1.3 Billion in Military Aid to Egypt Amid Gaza Ceasefire Efforts
The US State Department announced on Thursday its decision to release $1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt without conditions.
EKO HOT BLOG reports that this release comes amidst close collaboration between Cairo and Washington on brokering a ceasefire in Gaza.
Previously, the United States had tied a portion of its annual aid to Egypt to improvements in human rights conditions. Egypt, led by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, has faced criticism for stifling dissent.
This year, however, the State Department noted “progress” in specific human rights areas in Egypt. It highlighted Cairo’s role in mediating between Israel and Hamas, the Palestinian armed group, during the Gaza conflict.
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A State Department spokesperson emphasized the decision’s importance in advancing regional peace and Egypt’s contributions to US national security priorities, particularly in securing a Gaza ceasefire.
Egypt, the United States, and Qatar are involved in negotiations to release hostages held by Hamas since an October 7 attack on Israel, and to halt subsequent Israeli military actions that have caused significant casualties in Gaza.
President Joe Biden speaks with Egyptian President Abdel Fatah El-Sisi
The spokesperson also credited Egypt for promoting a ceasefire in Sudan, where a civil war has raged for over 16 months.
US Secretary of State Antony Blinken informed Congress of the budget allocation as required by US law.
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While Washington regularly criticizes Egypt’s human rights record, it acknowledged steps taken by Egypt in meeting conditions for aid release. These include proposed judicial reforms and the release of over 950 political prisoners since September 2023.
Despite ongoing concerns by human rights groups about Egypt’s extensive political prisoner population and harsh detention conditions, the US decision underscores its recognition of Egyptian efforts towards meeting specified human rights criteria.
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