Egypt is apprehensive over the Islamist takeover in Syria, adjusting its foreign relations carefully after having previously supported Assad. This shift raises concerns about regional stability and the potential resurgence of the Muslim Brotherhood. While other Arab states quickly engage with the new authorities, Egypt maintains a cautious stance, prioritizing its national security amid the geopolitical shifts following Assad’s ouster.
The recent Islamist takeover of Syria has elicited significant apprehension in Egypt, prompting a careful reevaluation of its diplomatic relations. Following the ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, Egypt had previously extended backing to Bashar al-Assad until the very last moment. With Hayat Tahrir al-Sham now in control of Syria, concerns regarding the implications for regional stability have intensified. Merissa Khurma, the director of the Middle East Program at the Wilson Center, emphasized the anxiety surrounding the Brotherhood’s historical context in Egypt, highlighting the delicate situation that the new development presents for Cairo.
In a notable departure from some Arab states that quickly recognized the new Syrian authorities, Egypt has opted for a more cautious approach. Just three days prior to Assad’s ousting, Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty reaffirmed Egypt’s support for the regime, only to wait three weeks before reaching out to his Syrian counterpart. During this call, he urged the importance of inclusivity in governance to achieve stability. In response to this evolving situation, an Egyptian aid plane recently delivered humanitarian assistance to Syria, marking a significant step in Cairo’s engagement strategy post-Assad.
Egyptian President Sisi has adopted a non-committal stance following Assad’s downfall, stating, “Those who make the decisions in Syria are the people of the country. They can either destroy it or rebuild it.” The country is deeply concerned about the emergence of non-state actors and Islamists in Syria, both of which are identified as red flags for Egypt’s national security. Domestically, the government has curbed any possibility of unrest inspired by events in Syria, with reports of arrests related to Syrian celebrations following Assad’s exit and tightened visa regulations for nationals from Syria.
The geopolitical landscape in the Middle East has shifted dramatically in light of Assad’s fall. While Iran’s influence has waned, Turkey’s power has surged, raising alarms in Cairo due to its rivalry with Ankara. David Schenker, a senior fellow at the Washington Institute, pointed out that Turkey’s support for the new regime poses a threat to Egypt, especially given Turkey’s long-standing affiliation with the Muslim Brotherhood. In contrast to other Gulf states that have established relations with Syria, Egypt seeks to avoid international isolation while advocating for a power-sharing framework in Syria to ensure stability.
Overall, Egypt is prioritizing its security and national interests in its approach to the Syrian situation. As highlighted by Mirette Mabrouk from the Middle East Institute, the overarching concern remains potential mistreatment of minorities in the new Syrian regime, which could incite domestic instability and spill over into regional unrest.
The political dynamics in Syria have undergone significant upheaval following the recent Islamist takeover, particularly with the rise of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). For Egypt, this transition presents a complex challenge, especially given the historical context of the Muslim Brotherhood’s past rule in Egypt and its ousting by President Sisi. Egypt’s previous support for Assad underscores its cautious foreign policy, as the country grapples with the implications of a potentially Islamist-led government next door amidst an evolving Middle Eastern geopolitical landscape, exacerbated by Turkey’s growing influence after traditionally supporting Syria’s opposition.
In conclusion, Egypt’s cautious response to the Islamist victory in Syria reflects deep-rooted concerns about regional stability and national security. With a history of interactions between the Muslim Brotherhood and Egyptian governance, the Sisi administration remains vigilant in managing its diplomatic relations. As Turkey’s role in the region expands, Egypt must navigate its approach carefully to preserve its influence while ensuring domestic stability. The situation continues to evolve, warranting close attention to how it plays out in both Syria and across the broader Middle East.
Original Source: www.kpvi.com
