The tragic death of Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi in a helicopter crash has elicited a heartfelt response from Egypt. The Egyptian government extended sincere condolences to Iran, marking a moment of solidarity amid a history of complex relations.
Presidential Spokesman Ahmed Fahmy conveyed President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s support during this difficult time. Foreign Minister Sameh Shoukry also mourned his Iranian counterpart, Hossein Amir-Abdollahian, and other officials lost in the crash.
SEE ALSO: Tragic Loss Shakes Iran: President Ebrahim Raisi Dies in Helicopter Accident
Egypt and Iran’s relationship has been strained since the 1979 Iranian Revolution and Egypt’s subsequent peace treaty with Israel. The tensions deepened when Iran’s Shah found refuge and was buried in Egypt after the revolution, coupled with concerns about the spread of Shiaism in Sunni-majority Egypt and Israel’s opposition to Egyptian-Iranian ties due to Tehran’s nuclear program.
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Despite these longstanding issues, there have been efforts to restore official ties, primarily facilitated by Iraq. Raisi had shown interest in improving relations with Egypt, which has historically viewed Iran as a security threat. Sisi’s potential attendance at Raisi’s funeral remains uncertain, yet his expression of support indicates a possible thaw in relations.
A political analyst highlighted the Machiavellian principle, “the enemy of my enemy is my friend,” suggesting that Egypt’s national security concerns regarding Israel’s actions in Palestinian Rafah might align with Tehran’s interests. This pragmatic approach could influence Egypt’s diplomatic strategy moving forward.
Egypt briefly restored ties with Iran in 2012 after President Mohammed Morsi was elected. His visit to Tehran and the reciprocal visit by then-Iranian President Mahmoud Ahmadinejad marked significant diplomatic engagement, including establishing direct flights between Tehran and Cairo.
The future of Egypt-Iran relations remains uncertain, but recent events could pave the way for renewed diplomatic efforts. As both nations navigate their complex history and shared regional interests, the potential for cooperation and improved ties remains a topic of significant interest.
