Well front, back trenches, how did the Iran war put Egypt in a religious crisis?

The war between America and Iran has put many countries in dilemma. The situation is such that many countries are avoiding speaking openly in favor of anyone. A few days ago, it was reported that Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Turkey and Somalia are considering forming a new military alliance. But Iran’s attacks on the Gulf countries have put everyone in a dilemma. Egypt, which supports America in every crisis in the Middle East, is also stuck in dilemma.

Egypt’s economy is going through a very critical period. Global fuel uncertainty is having an impact here as well. Every tanker leaving Hormuz is on Iran’s radar. In such a situation, Egypt cannot tolerate Iran’s criticism even if it wants to. Although its economy has been receiving financial support from the Gulf countries for decades. Another religious crisis facing Egypt is that its Gulf allies, including Saudi Arabia, could be upset if it talks directly with Iran.

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Egypt’s economy is in crisis

Inflation in Egypt has increased significantly due to the Covid pandemic and the subsequent Russia-Ukraine war. Egypt receives a large amount of revenue from Suez Canal fees. But it also declined due to Houthi rebels’ offensive in the Red Sea. Now the Houthi rebels are again threatening to close the Bab al Mandeb strait. If this happens, Egypt may face a further reduction in revenue from the Suez Canal. This is why Egypt is unable to show solidarity with the Gulf countries and openly oppose Iran.

Fuel puts Egypt in a dilemma

Egypt is in the grip of a serious energy crisis due to the Iran war. Heavy electricity cuts are being implemented. Egypt’s energy import bill was $1.2 billion in January. It rose to $2.5 billion in March. The government had to increase prices by more than 30 percent. Government vehicles are being allotted 30 percent less fuel. The light used for street lights and roadside advertisements has been reduced by 50 percent.

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What is the threat facing Egypt?

Egyptian President Abdul Fattah al-Sisi recently held talks with Iranian President Massoud Pezheskian. He insisted on reducing tension through dialogue and said that Egypt is ready to provide all possible help through mediation. Egypt also discussed a ceasefire with Iran along with Pakistan. Foreign Minister Abdelati played an active role. On March 31, Sisi spoke to Trump and claimed that only Trump could stop the war. On April 2, the Egyptian foreign minister arrived in Moscow. Here he met with Putin. There was a discussion between the two leaders regarding the opening of the food and energy corridor.

Egypt’s Sisi government wants to strike a balance with Iran. She is also not shying away from initiatives that will benefit Iran. But these steps have their own dangers. Egypt’s move to benefit Iran could upset its Gulf allies. The United Arab Emirates has the largest foreign direct investment in Egypt.

Two years ago, in 2024, the UAE bought Egypt’s Ras Al-Hikma district for $35 billion. This amount was used to save Egypt from economic crisis. Qatar has also invested 3.5 billion dollars. About 4 billion dollars of Kuwait and more than 10 billion dollars of Saudi Arabia are deposited in the central bank of Egypt. If Egypt takes any step in favor of Iran, the Gulf countries can withdraw this amount.