Egypt is closely monitoring the aftermath of the Syrian uprising that led to Bashar al-Assad’s ouster. The Egyptian government fears that revolutionary sentiments could inspire public unrest against President el-Sisi. Recent events highlight increased surveillance and repressive measures targeting individuals expressing support for the Syrian revolt.
In the aftermath of the overthrow of Bashar al-Assad in Syria by Islamist rebels, Egypt has exhibited considerable concern regarding the potential spread of revolutionary fervor among its own population. Observing social media movements, such as the hashtag urging “It’s your turn, dictator,” Egyptian authorities have understood the implications for President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s regime. Having experienced a similar revolutionary history, the Egyptian state remains on high alert amid fears of a contagion of rebellion.
Since the Arab Spring uprisings began in late 2010, both Syria and Egypt have undergone significant political upheavals. The fall of Assad marks a critical juncture for Egypt, as its leadership is acutely aware of the similarities in their struggles against authoritarian rule. In Egypt, the ousting of Hosni Mubarak led to a brief period of Islamist governance, only to be overturned by el-Sisi’s military-led regime, which now engages in cautious monitoring of regional developments.
The Egyptian government’s response to the events in Syria illustrates its deep-seated anxieties regarding Islamist movements and the possibility of uprisings akin to those seen during the Arab Spring. The arrest of Syrian refugees celebrating Assad’s downfall underscores the lengths to which the Egyptian authorities will go to maintain their grip on power. Ultimately, the ongoing political dynamics in Syria could significantly influence the stability of the Egyptian regime and the broader Middle East.
Original Source: www.nytimes.com
