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Unrest in the Heart of Cairo

Despite more than two years of conflict in Gaza, Egypt's government remains inactive. This inaction is attributed to intricate international complications and a growing disconnection from its domestic populace.

Unrest in the streets of Cairo
Unrest in the streets of Cairo

Unrest in the Heart of Cairo

In a controversial proposal, Israeli and American politicians have suggested relocating the Palestinian population from Gaza to neighboring countries or an African state. This proposal has sparked furious reactions due to its similarity to the displacement of hundreds of thousands during the wars of 1948 and 1967 in many Arab states.

The border between the Gaza Strip and Egypt is strictly controlled, with the government of President Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi rigorously enforcing entry restrictions. This is due to fears of a mass influx of refugees, as Egypt would be significantly different if it were to take in even a part of the two million people from Gaza. The Egyptian authorities emphasize the desire to maintain national stability, as they see Gaza as a potential internal problem.

The relationship between Egypt, Gaza, and the Palestinian issue is complex. For many years, smuggling from Egypt into the Gaza Strip flourished, with Hamas working closely with both Sinai gangs and the Muslim Brotherhood. The Muslim Brotherhood, a significant political force in Egypt, maintains close ties with Hamas.

The regime of Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi came to power in 2013 after two years of debates and societal conflicts, marking a shift from nearly 30 years under the dictatorial rule of President Hosni Mubarak. The regime of Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi places a strong emphasis on the urban population with secure jobs as the most important pillar of its support.

In Cairo, people are wary of discussing Gaza, expressing concerns about its potential impact and the fear of ending up like Iraq or Lebanon. The Egyptian authorities are cautious about the repercussions of any significant involvement in the Palestinian issue, prioritizing the stability and security of their own nation.

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