U.S. to Cut Military Aid to Egypt Amid Gaza Plan Opposition

The U.S. will reduce military aid to Egypt, beginning in 2026, due to Egypt’s opposition to a Trump-led plan to relocate Palestinians from Gaza. The specifics of this aid cut are pending further consultations, although Egypt receives $2.1 billion annually, largely for military purposes, and some aid is conditional on human rights compliance. Diplomatic tensions continue around these developments.

The United States has informed Egypt about a forthcoming reduction in military aid starting in 2026, as reported by the Qatari-owned outlet Al Araby Al Jadeed. This decision is reportedly linked to Egypt’s opposition to the proposed relocation of Palestinians from Gaza to Sinai, as put forth in a plan by former President Donald Trump.

Egyptian diplomatic sources stated that official notification has been received from the U.S. regarding this military aid reduction, which will take effect next year. However, specific details regarding the extent of the cuts are yet to be determined through discussions with officials from the Trump Administration.

Former President Trump previously signaled the possibility of cutting aid to Egypt and Jordan unless they agreed to accept Palestinians fleeing from conflict zones. During a meeting with Jordan’s King Abdullah II, Trump remarked on the substantial financial support provided to both countries, stating that he hated to threaten it.

Egypt typically receives an annual U.S. aid package totaling approximately $2.1 billion, which encompasses around $1.3 billion in military assistance and the remainder dedicated to economic support for the Egyptian government and NGOs. Notably, a portion of this aid, amounting to roughly $300 million, is contingent upon Egypt’s adherence to human rights obligations.

Furthermore, sources indicate that the Pentagon has exerted pressure on Cairo to align with U.S. plans concerning the displacement of Palestinians. An unofficial Egyptian delegation allegedly visited Washington to articulate Egypt’s reluctance to embrace the Trump Plan, warning that such strategies could destabilize both Egyptian and Jordanian regimes if Palestinians were forcibly relocated.

In summary, the United States is poised to reduce military aid to Egypt following the country’s opposition to a controversial plan to resettle Palestinians. This decision underscores the complexities of U.S.-Egypt relations amid ongoing regional disputes. While the exact implications of the aid reduction remain unclear, it reflects significant geopolitical tensions in the Middle East and potential ramifications for stability in both Egypt and Jordan.

Original Source: www.jewishpress.com