Egypt open to ...
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What domestic or regional obstacles could challenge the normalization process, and how can the two countries manage them?
Challenges have always existed in the region across various issues, and several files are currently under discussion between the two sides. The most important one is Gaza and Palestine. In addition, other regional and international matters play a role, including evolving regional developments, particularly the aggressions carried out by the United States and Israel against Iranian territory, as well as other dynamics taking shape, as in Syria and Sudan. Nevertheless, shared interests do exist between the two countries. Despite these obstacles, the positions adopted by both sides have been constructive and forward-looking. The talks taking place between the two foreign ministries have been positive, and contacts continue on a regular basis. Araghchi has even held consultations with his Egyptian counterpart regarding the negotiations currently taking shape between Iran and the United States. Furthermore, discussions also took place with officials from the International Atomic Energy Agency in Egypt. This demonstrates that despite regional issues, Egypt has also stood alongside Iran on broader international matters and has adopted positive positions.
Given Egypt’s peace agreement with Israel, what impact would closer Tehran–Cairo ties have on regional balances, and could this affect Cairo’s interaction with Tel Aviv or Middle Eastern security dynamics?
Regarding relations between Egypt and Israel, it should be noted that the ties established in the 1970s under Anwar Sadat do involve political and security dimensions, but they do not mean full alignment or complete compliance with Israel in these areas. Egypt has always prioritized its own interests at different junctures. Even during the recent Gaza war, despite strong pressure from the United States to accept displaced residents from the Strip, Egypt resisted and was not willing to accept a systematic relocation of Palestinians onto its territory. Cairo has consistently placed its national and security interests first. The same equation applies to relations between Tehran and Cairo. Egypt will naturally prioritize its own national and security interests in any relationship with Iran and will push back wherever it feels its security is threatened. Egypt views Iran as a friendly and stabilizing country in the region. Given the insecurity along Egypt’s borders, which undermines regional security and national interests, it is highly important for Cairo to develop ties with Tehran in order to tilt the regional security balance in its favor. Therefore, Israel is unlikely to exert a systematic or fundamental influence on the advancement of Tehran-Cairo relations, considering Egypt’s security priorities.
What political, economic, and security advantages would the full restoration of diplomatic relations between Tehran and Cairo bring for Iran?
Beyond the longstanding historical ties between the two countries, under current conditions Iran and Egypt can stand together politically and in terms of security. Given their historical importance and geopolitical weight, alongside other regional powers such as Turkey and Saudi Arabia, they could help provide regional stability and curb the aggressions and excessive demands of Israel. Such actions are detrimental to all regional countries, as economic interests and development can only be achieved in a secure environment. With the development visions that countries across the region have set for themselves, they are seeking to restore stability and security to secure greater economic gains. In addition to key political and security dimensions, economic cooperation is also important. Given Egypt’s historical attractions, tourism would certainly be one of the channels connecting the two countries. At one point, a tourism agreement was even signed to facilitate the exchange of tourists, although it was not fully implemented. Nevertheless, the potential and capacities exist for Iran to become a tourism destination for Egyptians and, reciprocally, for Egypt to become a major destination for Iranian travelers. Therefore, the development and full restoration of diplomatic ties could encompass all these areas.