The United States has announced the unconditional release of USD 1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt, highlighting Cairo’s significant role in mediating the Israel-Hamas conflict in Gaza, announced the US State Department on Thursday. “This decision is important to advancing regional peace and Egypt’s specific and ongoing contributions to US national security priorities, particularly to finalize a ceasefire agreement for Gaza, bring the hostages home, surge humanitarian assistance for Palestinians in need, and help bring an enduring end to the Israel-Hamas conflict,” a State Department spokesperson said. For nearly 11 months, Egypt, alongside the US and Qatar, has facilitated indirect negotiations between Israel and Hamas in an effort to secure a ceasefire amidst the Israeli war on Gaza. Egypt’s involvement in the conflict has been pivotal, with its strategic mediation positioning it as a key partner in Middle East peace efforts. In addition to the Gaza ceasefire negotiations, Egypt has also played a crucial role in addressing the civil war in Sudan. Since the conflict erupted over 16 months ago, Egypt has hosted thousands of Sudanese refugees and led several diplomatic initiatives aimed at quelling the violence. The State…
