The US State Department announced on Thursday that it will unconditionally release $1.3 billion in military aid to Egypt, citing the country’s progress in human rights and its crucial role in mediating a ceasefire in Gaza.
The decision comes as Egypt, the US, and Qatar work together to negotiate a ceasefire agreement between Israel and Hamas.
In the past, the US had made the release of part of this annual aid conditional on Egypt’s human rights record.
However, this year, the State Department acknowledged Egypt’s advancements in certain areas of human rights, as well as its significant contributions to US national security priorities.
The US Secretary of State, Antony Blinken, notified Congress of the budget allocation, as required by law.
The move is seen as a strategic decision to support Egypt’s efforts in promoting regional peace, particularly in Gaza and Sudan.
While the US has previously criticised Egypt’s human rights record and suspended aid last year, the Egyptian government has taken steps to address these concerns, including releasing hundreds of political prisoners and relaunching a national dialogue.
