Tuesday, May 31, 2011

The changing face of Egyptian foreign policy

Under President Mubarak, the four year closure of the Rafah border represented Egypt’s decision to put its partnership with Israel and the United States above supporting Muslims living inside Gaza. This changed on Saturday 28 May 2011. Egypt no longer enforces Israel’s blockade over Gaza.

The decision by Egypt to flex its regional muscle is demonstrated not only by the reopening of this boarder, but also by it facilitating the reconciliation pact between Fatah and Hamas. Both of these events are a reminder of how things are changing between Egypt and Israel post Mubarak. There is a tangible shift by the Egyptians away from Israel and toward the Palestinians.

1 comment:

William said...

Interesting Joanna