Egypt is apprehensive about the Islamist takeover in Syria, prompting cautious diplomatic moves after its long-standing support for Assad. This shift raises concerns regarding the influence of the Muslim Brotherhood and potential unrest within Egypt, leading to increased security measures and a reevaluation of foreign relations, particularly with Turkey.
The recent Islamist control in Syria has raised concerns in Cairo, particularly in light of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s previous ousting of the Muslim Brotherhood. While Egypt remained supportive of President Bashar al-Assad until his removal, the emergence of Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS) has prompted Egypt to reevaluate its foreign relations. Merissa Khurma from the Wilson Center noted Egypt’s apprehension regarding the Muslim Brotherhood’s legacy, asserting that the situation in Syria could exacerbate regional tensions.
In contrast to other Arab nations that rapidly engaged with the new Syrian authorities, Egypt has adopted a more cautious approach, exemplified by Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty’s delayed communication with his Syrian counterpart. Despite a recent humanitarian aid delivery to Syria, Sisi has refrained from making definitive statements regarding the Syrian leadership, emphasizing the responsibility of Syrian citizens in determining their future. Consequently, Egypt’s response has been characterized as “massively cautious” in light of potential instability influenced by Islamist factions.
Domestically, Cairo has preemptively countered any incitement to unrest, detaining 30 Syrians who celebrated the fall of Assad and tightening visa requirements for Syrians. In the aftermath of Assad’s ouster, the Egyptian media contrasted the nation’s stability with regional unrest while suggesting that external forces may target Egypt next.
The shift in Syria’s power dynamics has consequential implications for Egypt, particularly due to Turkey’s potential ascendance as an influential player following its support for Syrian opposition factions. This situation raises concerns in Egypt regarding the geopolitical balance of the region, especially given the historically strained relations between Cairo and Ankara after the Muslim Brotherhood’s ouster. There is consensus among analysts that Egypt, wary of isolation, will seek to engage with the new regime in Syria but will do so with conditions centered on regional stability and security.
The Islamist win in Syria has led to heightened tensions in Egypt, influencing the country’s foreign policy and internal security measures. Egypt, which previously supported Assad, now faces a new geopolitical landscape characterized by the rise of Islamist groups like Hayat Tahrir al-Sham (HTS). This development poses risks to Egypt’s stability, as the government fears the potential for increased unrest linked to the resurgence of the Muslim Brotherhood’s influence within its borders. The backdrop of Egypt’s cautious approach includes its complex relations with Turkey, a regional rival that has historically supported opposition movements in Syria.
In conclusion, Egypt’s apprehension over the Islamist governance in Syria reflects its broader geopolitical concerns regarding domestic stability and security. The cautious engagement strategy adopted by Cairo underscores its commitment to preventing unrest that may arise from regional dynamics. As Egypt navigates this complex situation, its historical ties with the Muslim Brotherhood and competition with Turkey will undoubtedly shape its foreign policy decisions and regional posture in the coming months.
Original Source: www.france24.com
