Sisi Warns of Chaos in Egypt Amid Syria’s Turmoil
Egyptian President Sisi, in a propaganda video, warns that forces responsible for Syria’s destruction intend to do the same in Egypt following Assad’s downfall, indicating a commitment to national security. Celebratory demonstrations by Syrian refugees in Egypt were met with crackdowns, leading to detentions and new visa restrictions on Syrians entering the country.
On December 8, 2023, an Egyptian state-controlled media outlet aired a propaganda video featuring President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, in which he expressed grave concerns regarding the recent downfall of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad. In the compilation of prior speeches, President Sisi claimed that the fall of Assad had resulted in the devastation of Syria and that malevolent forces were attempting to replicate this destruction in Egypt. He emphasized the strategic importance of Egypt and warned that chaos would ensue worldwide should Egypt collapse.
In his address, Sisi declared, “Pay attention, their mission in Syria is complete. They have already destroyed Syria. Their goal is to bring down the Egyptian state.” He further asserted that the international community was actively working to destabilize Egypt’s economy and disrupt social harmony. Sisi vowed to firmly protect the nation and its people against any threats, stating that, “Whoever threatens our security, we will confront them using the appropriate means.”
Following Assad’s exit, public support among Syrian refugees erupted into spontaneous celebrations in Cairo. However, these gatherings were swiftly suppressed by Egyptian security forces, leading to the detention of approximately 30 Syrian nationals. Reports emerged from the Egyptian Initiative for Personal Rights detailing that some of the detained individuals faced deportation back to Syria. Concurrently, Egypt instituted new visa regulations for Syrians, necessitating extra security permits for those holding European or American documentation to enter the country.
Meanwhile, Sisi conducted a briefing wherein he reassured his audience that Egypt would avoid the fate of Syria, emphasizing the unity of the Egyptian people, army, and police forces. He remarked, “As long as Egyptians are united, with their army and police forces, no one will be able to do anything.” These comments reflect the President’s determination to maintain control and stability amid regional turbulence.
The release of the propaganda video by an Egyptian intelligence-owned channel comes in the wake of significant changes in Syria after the fall of President Bashar al-Assad on December 8, 2023. The regime change ended more than five decades of oppressive rule, prompting concerns about similar instability in Egypt. The video forms part of a broader narrative utilized by the Egyptian government to portray itself as a bastion of stability in a region rife with upheaval. This situation has also raised issues regarding the treatment of Syrian refugees in Egypt and the implications of such political changes on bilateral relations.
In conclusion, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s remarks reflect a deep-seated apprehension regarding the political instability in the region following the fall of Bashar al-Assad. His commitment to fortifying national security amidst growing unrest illustrates the Egyptian government’s strategy to preemptively counter perceived threats. The recent measures against Syrian refugees highlight the complexities of Egypt’s internal politics and the balancing act the state must perform in responding to regional developments.
Original Source: www.middleeasteye.net
