Africa’s most powerful military gets $320 million in US military aid after ‘helpful role’ in Iran war

The United States has waived human rights conditions attached to $320 million in military aid to Egypt, allowing the funds to be released as Washington seeks to strengthen its security relationship with Cairo amid the conflict with Iran.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio approved the waiver for part of Egypt’s $1.3 billion annual US military assistance, saying the money was important to American national security. The decision covers funding for counterterrorism, border security and nonproliferation programmes, according to Reuters report.

A State Department memo said the waiver was particularly important because of Egypt’s “helpful role” following Operation Epic Fury, the name used by the US military for its campaign against Iran. The memo did not provide details of Egypt’s contribution.

The decision reflects the strategic importance of a relationship that dates back decades. Egypt became a major recipient of US military support after signing its peace treaty with Israel in 1979 and has received about $1.3 billion annually since the late 1980s.

Egypt has also played a central role in regional diplomacy, including negotiations over a ceasefire in Gaza, making its relationship with Washington important beyond military cooperation.

However, the aid has repeatedly become a source of tension between Washington and Cairo because part of the funding is tied to human rights and democratic reforms.

The US has withheld portions of the assistance under previous administrations, including the Biden administration, over concerns about Egypt’s rights record. In 2024, the Biden administration waived the restrictions and released the full $1.3 billion allocation following the escalation of the Gaza conflict and Egypt’s role in regional diplomacy.

The latest waiver comes as Egypt faces economic pressure from the wider regional conflict, including higher fuel costs and other disruptions.

Human rights organisations continue to accuse President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s government of abuses, including torture and enforced disappearances. Egyptian authorities reject such criticism and say maintaining stability and meeting citizens’ basic needs remain priorities.