Key facts
- Egypt believes the US and Iran can de-escalate tensions and resume peace talks.
- Cairo is actively mediating between the US and Iran, engaging with both parties and regional states.
- Egypt's diplomatic efforts are aimed at preventing further conflict and its severe economic consequences, particularly on Suez Canal revenues.
- President Sisi has emphasized Egypt's rejection of military solutions and its support for dialogue.
- Egypt is working with international partners, including the US and China, to contain the military escalation.
Egypt views the current US-Iran crisis as bridgeable and is actively pursuing mediation to de-escalate tensions and resume peace talks, according to Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty. The North African nation is engaged in daily diplomatic efforts with both the US and Iran, as well as regional partners like Persian Gulf states, Pakistan, and Turkey, to encourage a return to a mid-June Memorandum of Understanding.
These diplomatic initiatives stem from Cairo's deep concerns about regional instability, particularly the potential for a US-Israeli war with Iran. President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has explicitly rejected military options, advocating for dialogue to prevent further regional chaos. Analysts suggest that Arab capitals have conveyed their alarm over escalation risks directly to US President Donald Trump.
Any military action against Iran carries fears of a dramatic surge in global oil prices, which would inflict severe economic damage on energy-dependent economies. Egypt, already grappling with economic challenges exacerbated by the war in Gaza and regional shifts, fears a direct clash would compound its existing difficulties. The economic toll on Egypt has been significant, with Suez Canal revenues plummeting during periods of disruption caused by Houthi attacks in the Red Sea.
Egypt's efforts include intensive consultations with counterparts from Iran, Qatar, Oman, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and the US special envoy, Steve Witkoff. Witkoff conveyed Trump's appreciation for Sisi's mediation role. Discussions have also touched upon the dire economic consequences of continued warfare on global economies, including impacts on international navigation, supply chains, and inflation. In parallel, Egypt is engaging with China to expand cooperation and has addressed other regional issues, including the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, Lebanon, and the crisis in Sudan.