A glimmer of hope emerged on Monday after US President Donald Trump announced a five-day pause in strikes on Iranian energy facilities. This came amid reports that Turkey, Pakistan, and Egypt are trying to broker peace in the Iran-US war. To facilitate the ceasefire, Egypt, widely regarded as the Middle East’s foremost mediator, has specifically initiated efforts to establish contact with several Gulf countries.
In view of the recent diplomatic efforts, Egypt’s role is regarded as critically important. According to reports, over the past two days, Turkey, Egypt, and Pakistan have been passing messages between Washington and Tehran, Axios reported, citing an unnamed American source. The foreign ministers of the three nations had also held separate discussions with White House envoy and the Iranian Foreign Minister.
Sisi takes a hands-on role to broker peace
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has taken a hands-on role in brokering a peace agreement. He has been actively engaging in settlement discussions aimed at stopping the West Asia conflict, after Iran warned that if its oil and energy infrastructure is attacked, it will plunge the entire Middle East into conflict.
Why is Egypt’s role crucial?
- Egypt is a Muslim-majority country, with approximately 90 percent of its population identifying as Sunni Muslim. It maintains excellent relations with the US and other Muslim nations. On the other hand, it also enjoys stable ties with Israel.
- The Suez Canal, a vital waterway, falls directly under Egypt’s control. If blocked, it would trigger a crisis across the country. This is why Egypt’s role is considered to be of critical significance.
- Egypt has previously played a major role in de-escalating the Israel-Hamas war and other major conflicts, including those in Sudan and Ethiopia. Now, Egypt has entered the fray to broker peace between the US and Iran.
Iran’s six conditions to end conflict
Iran has officially set six conditions for ending the conflict. A key demand is a guarantee against renewed attacks in Tehran. The other conditions include:
- Closure of U.S. bases in the Middle East region
- Compensation to Iran
- Cessation of hostilities on regional fronts
- A new legal framework for the Strait of Hormuz
- Legal action against media figures hostile to Iran.
