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EGYPT. Historically, the “alpha” nation of Arab World –looked to by other Arabs as the leader Secular (non-Islamic) Educated population Modern – for this part of world Strategic – Suez Canal Militarily powerful Receives huge amount of US aid as friend of USA
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EGYPT • Historically, the “alpha” nation of Arab World –looked to by other Arabs as the leader • Secular (non-Islamic) • Educated population • Modern – for this part of world • Strategic – Suez Canal • Militarily powerful • Receives huge amount of US aid as friend of USA • $2 billion annually ($1.3 for military in 2010)
Camp David, 1979 • President Jimmy Carter, Menachem Begin (Israel) and Anwar Sadat (Egypt) • Israel and Egypt MAKE PEACE (after 3 wars!!) • Israel returns Sinai Peninsula • Egypt recognizes Israel’s right to exist!!! HUGE EVENT
Who Done It? • Egyptian Military Officers – angry about peace with Israel • Connected to Muslim Brotherhood (Islamic group that goes back to 1920s in Egypt) Successor…….?
MUBARAK • President since 1981 (30 yrs) • Former Air Force Officer • Friend of the USA • Sent troops to fight Iraq in Gulf War (1991) • Allow US troops to train on his soil • Allows US free and expedited movement through Suez Canal • Moderate voice on Israel and other issues • Runs a “Stable” Country – Secular!!!
Problem? • Oppressive Regime • No “democracy” or freedoms • Heavy use of police • Corruption • Joblessness • Keeps ORDER but with an Iron Fist
US Fear? IF Mubarak goes, who or what replaces him? Islamic Fundamentalists? Muslim Brotherhood? Do we lose a “friend” in the region? What about Israel? Will the new regime be so tolerant? Another Iran???