Egyptian Politics

For all of you wondering about the Egyptian tension, this post is for you =)

The Egyptian rebellion is only one of the many upheavals going on in the Arab world. Yemin’s leader has resigned, Jordan has replaced her prime minister, and Tanzania is also in turmoil. Islamic dictatorships are falling at a rapid rate. The news is calling it the “facebook revolution” because those up in arms about it are getting the word out through facebook! Gotta love America’s contribution to world politics =) 

So what do the Israelis think about this change in government? For Americans, a government turnover excites us because we assume that the new government will be more democratic. The Middle East, however, doesn’t always work that way. My Israeli history teacher believes, as many Israelis do, that the new government will be more radically Islamic. The Arabs in Egypt are rebelling because of the high prices and lack of middle class (in Egypt, there are only the rich, mega rich, and destitutely poor) and the radical Islamists are sure to use this as a rationale for more power. Essentially, Egyptians are looking for a better life, regardless of where it comes from.

The Israelis are not too excited about it. The President of Egypt has secured peace between Israel and Egypt and his resignation will leave this peace treaty up in the air as to its continuation. Egyptian peace is critical to Israeli defense because they control the Sinai and keep terrorists out of that area. The Israelis are worried that the new government will be more anti-Israel and allow terrorists to run free along the border. Also, the new Egyptian government will most likely put more pressure on Israel to allow the creation of a Palestine State. As you can imagine, Israelis are NOT excited about that (maybe more on that later). Furthermore, a lot of Israel’s oil comes from Egypt so gas prices are sure to rise. (A catastrophe Americans know all to well!)

As always, American politicians look ridiculous. Obama made a point at the beginning of his term to offer his support to the Egyptian president. Now, the pride and joy of the American people, Obama and the always lovable Hilary Clinton, are presenting speeches in which they say absolutely nothing about the situation while endeavoring to support both sides in case one of them wins. Basically, they are supporting the president all the while stating it would be better for him to step down and allow the new regime to rise. Waffling American politicians keep the comedians busy in the international stage.  In case you weren’t keeping track, America’s contribution: Facebook and Comic material.   

Thankfully, God is in control of every situation. But it would still be beneficial to pray for peace!