Egyptian officials are apprehensive about the rise of Islamist powers in Syria following the ascent of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). The government, which once supported Bashar al-Assad, is now treading cautiously in its dealings with Damascus, balancing regional dynamics and internal security concerns amidst rising Islamist influence.
The recent rise of Islamist forces, particularly Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS), in Syria has instilled a sense of apprehension within Egypt regarding the potential ramifications on regional dynamics. Historically, Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi rose to power following the ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood, creating a sensitive backdrop for any Islamist ascendancy next door. While several Arab nations rapidly engaged with Syria’s new leadership, Egypt has adopted a more cautious approach, reflecting its concerns over the implications of Islamist governance.
The Egyptian government had supported President Bashar al-Assad until shortly before he was ousted. Subsequently, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty refrained from making immediate contact with Syria’s new authorities, advocating for inclusivity in governance only after a three-week delay. Notably, Egypt recently delivered humanitarian aid to Damascus, marking its first formal assistance since Assad’s removal. Despite this gesture, Sisi has maintained a non-committal public stance, emphasizing that Syria’s future lies in the hands of its citizens.
Domestic reactions within Egypt have mirrored these cautious external relations. Security forces have taken action against Syrians celebrating Assad’s departure, exemplifying heightened sensitivity to any potential unrest that could arise from regional changes. State media presented a narrative of stability, contrasting Egypt’s situation with the turmoil enveloping Syria, while Sisi cautioned against any external influences threatening Egyptian stability.
The upheaval in Syria has shifted regional power balances, reducing Iran’s influence while augmenting Turkey’s position—a concern for Egypt, given its historical rivalry with Ankara. As Turkey aligns with the new Syrian leadership, Egypt fears further isolation amidst evolving alliances among Gulf nations seeking to establish ties with Damascus.
In light of these developments, Egypt is expected to require any support for Syria’s new leadership to come with explicit conditions, particularly concerning power-sharing arrangements among various groups to ensure stability within the region. Ultimately, Egypt’s strategic considerations are driven principally by urgent security imperatives and national interests.
The upheaval in Syria has emerged as a pivotal issue affecting regional dynamics in the Middle East, particularly for Egypt following the overthrow of President Bashar al-Assad. The rise of Islamist factions, notably HTS, has rekindled fears within Egypt’s government, which is led by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, who previously assumed power by removing the Muslim Brotherhood. This development has necessitated a reassessment of foreign policy and domestic stability measures in light of apprehensions regarding the potential resurgence of Islamist movements and the resulting implications for Egyptian security.
In summary, Egypt’s cautious approach to the changing political landscape in Syria stems from a combination of historical experiences with the Muslim Brotherhood and ongoing concerns regarding domestic stability amidst regional turmoil. The evolving alliances in the region, particularly involving Turkey and Gulf nations, present both challenges and opportunities for Cairo as it navigates its foreign relations policy while safeguarding its national interests.
Original Source: www.france24.com
