How Egypt lost its regional power – and became complicit in Gaza’s siege: One on One with Hossam el-Hamalawy
Published date: 16 June 2025 11:37 BST
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Last update: 3 weeks 1 day ago
“Egypt was a regional heavyweight - now its policy serves Gulf and Israeli interests.”
Egyptian journalist Hossam el-Hamalawy joins MEE’s Dania Akkad to unpack how Cairo went from being a regional heavyweight to a state beholden to Gulf cash and Western approval.
In this interview, El-Hamalawy explains why Egypt’s foreign policy now serves Saudi, Emirati and Israeli interests, how Sisi’s repression has gutted domestic opposition, and why the Palestinian cause remains a radicalising force in Egyptian politics. He describes how Cairo has turned from a supporter of Palestine to a willing participant in Gaza’s siege, shutting down the Rafah crossing and echoing Israeli narratives.
He warns that another uprising is coming - and this time, Egypt’s regime might not survive it.
Egyptian journalist Hossam el-Hamalawy joins MEE’s Dania Akkad to unpack how Cairo went from being a regional heavyweight to a state beholden to Gulf cash and Western approval.
In this interview, El-Hamalawy explains why Egypt’s foreign policy now serves Saudi, Emirati and Israeli interests, how Sisi’s repression has gutted domestic opposition, and why the Palestinian cause remains a radicalising force in Egyptian politics. He describes how Cairo has turned from a supporter of Palestine to a willing participant in Gaza’s siege, shutting down the Rafah crossing and echoing Israeli narratives.
He warns that another uprising is coming - and this time, Egypt’s regime might not survive it.
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