In a region characterized by constantly changing political dynamics, Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi is deftly maneuvering between the imperatives of internal stability and the intricacies of regional diplomacy. This balancing act is particularly evident in the government's dealings with the Muslim Brotherhood and its relationship with neighboring Sudan.
Following the 2013 military coup that removed Mohammed Morsi—a leader of the Muslim Brotherhood and Egypt's first democratically elected president—from power, President al-Sisi's administration has markedly toughened its stance on political Islamists. The Muslim Brotherhood, which previously enjoyed significant representation in Egypt's parliament, has been relentlessly targeted, culminating in the recent confirmation of death penalties for 12 of its high-ranking members.
Al-Sisi categorizes the Muslim Brotherhood as a terrorist organization, believing stringent actions are necessary to protect Egypt from Islamist extremism. However, the unfolding crisis in Sudan demands a pragmatic approach from Cairo, especially in dealing with General Abdel Fattah al-Burhan's government, which has connections with the Brotherhood. As Egyptian journalist Hany Ghoraba points out, Egypt's priority is to secure its southern border, a 793-mile stretch it shares with Sudan. The turmoil in Sudan threatens to increase the influx of refugees into Egypt, exacerbating challenges along the border.
### Regional Dynamics: Enhancing Relations with Sudan
Internationally, President al-Sisi has been working to strengthen ties with Sudan's transitional authority amid the latter's complex political transition. Despite occasional tensions over territorial disputes and Sudan's asylum to members of the Muslim Brotherhood, both nations are keen on cooperation. Sudan's General al-Burhan, currently grappling with the Rapid Support Forces (RSF) conflict, seeks Egypt's backing to counter threats from these genocidal militias. The strife in Sudan, propelled by both domestic and foreign actors, has the potential to destabilize the wider region, making Egypt's involvement crucial in preventing further chaos.
Egypt's firm stance against the Muslim Brotherhood continues, with recent death sentences for its leaders signaling Cairo's determination to quash any potential resurgence of the group. Adel Ibrahim, a representative of the Sudanese Muslim Brotherhood, criticized the conflict's impact on Sudan, highlighting the grave consequences for its people, sovereignty, and economy. Egypt aims to dismantle the Brotherhood's leadership to secure its governance.
General al-Burhan's cooperation with Iran has also sparked concern, given the implications for regional stability due to Sudan's strategic position near the Red Sea entrance and Iran's ambitions. Egyptian Interior Minister Mahmoud Tawfik's warnings about Hamas's connections with the Brotherhood, alleging attempts to establish numerous terrorist cells, further underscore the complexity of the situation.
President al-Sisi's diplomatic endeavors illustrate the nuanced challenges of navigating regional politics and domestic security. His dual approach of opposing the Muslim Brotherhood while engaging with Sudan reflects Egypt's strategic commitment to protecting its interests. Amid external and internal pressures, Egypt's quest for stability in a turbulent regional environment continues unabated.