Egypt to receive advanced military equipment in $5 billion U.S. deal

The United States approved the sale of over $5 billion in military equipment to Egypt, an essential partner in mediation efforts during the Gaza conflict.

The U.S. State Department informed Congress on Friday of its approval for the sale, which includes:

• M1A1 Abrams tanks for $4.69 billion,
• Hellfire air-to-surface missiles for $630 million,
• Precision-guided munitions for $30 million.

“This sale will support U.S. foreign policy and national security by improving the security of a major non-NATO ally that remains a key strategic partner in the Middle East,” the State Department said in a statement.

Upon entering office in 2021, President Joe Biden pledged a tougher stance on Egypt's human rights record under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. However, U.S. arms sales to Cairo have continued.

While hundreds of political prisoners have been pardoned in Egypt over the past two years, international organizations estimate that at least three times as many individuals have been detained during the same period. 

Egypt remains one of the largest purchasers of American military technology, a legacy of its 1979 peace treaty with Israel.

Egypt plays a critical role in Middle Eastern diplomacy, particularly in its traditional role as a mediator between Israel and Palestine. 

Since the outbreak of the Gaza war in October 2023, Cairo and Washington have worked together toward achieving a ceasefire.

Additional Arms Sales

The State Department also approved:

• $295 million in military equipment for Taiwan, coinciding with a new $571 million U.S. military aid package aimed at countering increased Chinese military pressure.
• $170 million in bombs and missiles for Morocco and
• $130 million in drones and armored vehicles for Greece.

While Congress retains the power to block these sales, such actions are rarely taken.

These decisions reflect Washington’s balancing act of geopolitical interests and military partnerships with nations facing internal criticism, while addressing regional conflicts and maintaining its strategic influence globally.