In the Guns for Hire podcast, host Alia Brahimi and BBC journalist Nawal Al-Maghafi discuss American mercenaries in Yemen, contracted by the UAE to conduct targeted assassinations. The Delaware-registered private military company has trained Yemeni units to kill activists, teachers, and cultural figures, instilling terror in southern Yemen. The podcast, produced by the Atlantic Council’s North Africa Initiative, explores the normalization of contract warfare and its implications for the future of international conflict.

The article discusses the arrest of an individual in Egypt who is accused of being a serial rapist and sexual harasser. This event has sparked a renewed public discourse on the issues of sexual harassment and abuse in the country. The catalyst for the arrest and the conversation was the sharing of personal stories by many women on social media, which brought attention to the accused's actions and the broader issue of women's safety and rights in Egypt.

The Giza Zoo in Cairo is highlighted as an affordable leisure destination for families and couples, especially appealing to the poor and middle-class Egyptians. The zoo, which spans 80 acres and is surrounded by the city's hustle and bustle, offers a green retreat with its lush gardens, palms, and eucalyptus trees. With free entry for children and a nominal fee for adults, the Giza Zoo stands out as one of the few budget-friendly attractions in the area.

Egypt has increased security along its northern border with Gaza in response to Israel's planned ground offensive in Rafah. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi faces a dilemma: allowing Palestinian refugees into Egypt could lead to accusations of complicity in their displacement, while refusing entry could result in civilian casualties. Egypt has already allowed some wounded Palestinians to enter for medical treatment but remains firm against a mass influx. The situation has strained Egypt-Israel relations, with Egypt warning that mass displacement could jeopardize the Camp David Accords. Tensions are also high between Egypt and the US over border crossing allegations. The article underscores the difficult position of the Egyptian leadership amid rising internal and external pressures.

In the tenth episode of the Guns for Hire podcast, host Alia Brahimi and guest Renad Mansour discuss the complex dynamics of the Middle East, focusing on the war in Gaza and the involvement of non-state actors like the Wagner Group and Iran-backed Shi’a militias. They explore the Wagner Group's alleged transfer of Russian air defense systems to Hezbollah and the broader Russia-Iran rivalry in the region. The episode also draws parallels between the current conflict and the 2003 Iraq war, highlighting the role of economic interests in the actions of Shi’a armed groups. The Guns for Hire podcast is produced by the Atlantic Council’s North Africa Initiative and delves into the use of mercenaries in armed conflict, featuring diverse perspectives on the subject.

The article discusses Egypt's intensified efforts to mediate a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian factions in Gaza amidst an ongoing conflict that has impacted Egypt's economy through decreased tourism and Suez Canal revenues. The assassination of Hamas' Deputy Leader Saleh Al-Arouri has added pressure on Egypt, which is already dealing with an economic crisis. The Egyptian plan for a ceasefire includes a temporary truce, hostage releases, and humanitarian aid, but has faced challenges, including Hamas' demands and the recent assassination derailing talks. The article also touches on the potential for Qatar to mediate due to its influence with Hamas and the extension of the US military presence at Qatar's Al Udeid Air Base. The journalist, Shahira Amin, provides insights into the situation, including the Egyptian public's support for Palestinians and President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's balancing act between domestic and international narratives.

The European Union announced an $8.1-billion aid package for Egypt to curb illegal migration and support its struggling economy, following an $8 billion loan agreement with the IMF and a $35 billion investment deal with the Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company. Despite these financial lifelines, experts warn that without significant policy changes, including reducing the military's economic role and adopting a flexible exchange rate, Egypt's economic crisis may worsen. The article also highlights the need for improved human rights to secure continued international support. Critics argue that President Sisi's current policies, including expensive subsidies and mega-projects, are unsustainable and risk deepening the economic downturn.

The article discusses the upcoming Egyptian presidential election, which is expected to secure a third term for incumbent President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Despite attempts to present a democratic facade, skepticism remains due to the lack of serious competition and allegations of harassment against opposition candidates. The election is overshadowed by the war in Gaza, affecting Egyptian public opinion and Sisi's popularity. The article also touches on the economic crisis in Egypt, the role of various political parties and candidates, and the international support Egypt is receiving amidst the conflict with Gaza. The journalist, Shahira Amin, provides insights into the political climate and the challenges facing Sisi's potential third term, including the need to address the economic hardships faced by Egyptians.

The article discusses Egypt's response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Egypt, facing both external pressure from the United States and Israel and internal pressure from its citizens, has refused to open its border with Gaza for the mass evacuation of Palestinians, citing national security concerns and the potential for Hamas militants to infiltrate Sinai. The Egyptian government, led by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, has instead called for a ceasefire and negotiations. The article also touches on the economic and security challenges Egypt faces, the public's reaction to the government's stance, and the potential political implications for Sisi with upcoming presidential elections. Additionally, it critiques the US's role and policy in the region, suggesting a need for a shift to address the Arab masses' growing resentment towards the United States.

The article discusses Egypt's concerns over the ongoing Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip and the potential for a humanitarian crisis on its border. Egypt fears a mass exodus of Gazans into the Sinai Peninsula and has taken steps to prevent this, including urging Israel to allow safe passage for civilians and deploying troops to monitor the border. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has called for restraint and the protection of civilians. Israel has threatened to attack any aid trucks to Gaza and aims to eliminate Hamas. The IDF's suggestion for Gazans to flee to Egypt was seen as an attempt to forcibly displace them, which was later retracted. Israel's ambassador to Egypt reaffirmed the peace treaty and Sinai's sovereignty. Egypt is engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation and has been a mediator in the conflict. The US is involved in trying to establish a humanitarian corridor and evacuate US citizens from Gaza, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken coordinating with Egypt.

President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's apology for a police officer's assault on a lawyer in Damietta is seen as insufficient amidst rampant police abuses in Egypt. Recent incidents, including the deaths of lawyers Imam Affifi and Karim Hamdy, have sparked nationwide protests. Reports indicate a severe deterioration in human rights since the 2013 military takeover, with widespread abuses against various groups, including lawyers, students, journalists, and activists. Human Rights Watch and other organizations highlight the impunity of security forces and the lack of accountability for mass killings and forced disappearances. Despite some efforts, such as the creation of a special police unit to combat violence against women, significant reforms are needed to address the systemic issues within Egypt's security sectors.

The article critiques Egyptian liberals for their double standards and abandonment of democratic values post-2011 revolution. It highlights the political turmoil following Mohamed Morsi's controversial constitutional declaration, the subsequent military-backed overthrow, and the severe human rights violations under President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's regime. The author calls for a new strategy to restore stability and democracy in Egypt, emphasizing the need for respect for the constitution, a balanced media narrative, and a judiciary free from political influence.

The Guns for Hire podcast episode with host Alia Brahimi and guest Sergey Sukhankin discusses the arrest of Wagner Group operative Maksim Shugaley in Libya, the group's media operations in Africa, and their activities in Ukraine. The episode also touches on Russian policies in the Arctic and the Chinese private security industry. The podcast, produced by the Atlantic Council's North Africa Initiative, aims to explore the implications of the increasing use of mercenaries in conflict. It features diverse guests, including ethicists and historians, to understand the normalization of contract warfare and its future impact. The article also mentions the arrest of two Russian nationals in Poland for distributing Wagner recruitment materials.

The article discusses the reaction to the killing of al-Qaeda leader Ayman al-Zawahiri by the US, particularly in his native Egypt. While the US views it as a victory, the response in Egypt has been subdued, with limited public commentary and no official statement from the Egyptian government. The article critiques the US's counter-terrorism strategy, suggesting that it should focus more on combating extremist ideology rather than just targeting terrorist leaders. It highlights the systematic discrimination against Coptic Christians in Egypt, the rise in blasphemy convictions, and the radicalization occurring in Egyptian prisons. The author argues for a comprehensive approach that includes reforming Egypt's education system, engaging faith leaders, and respecting human rights. The article also touches on the need for the US to ensure foreign aid is used to improve the lives of Egyptians, especially in light of economic hardships exacerbated by the Ukraine war.

US President Joe Biden's upcoming Middle East trip is set against a backdrop of heightened tensions between Israel and Iran, with Israel not ruling out military action to prevent Iran from obtaining a nuclear weapon. The trip follows unproductive talks in Qatar to revive the Iran nuclear deal. Israel has been conducting airstrikes in Syria to disrupt Iranian support to Hezbollah, and there is a possibility of forming a US-led Middle East Air Defense Alliance to counter Iranian threats. Gulf states share concerns over Iran's actions, and there is a push for regional unity against Iran. The article suggests that military action against Iran could be detrimental and emphasizes the importance of seeking a diplomatic solution. It also notes that Biden's visit could foster regional cooperation and potentially advance the Middle East peace process. The article is written by Shahira Amin, a senior fellow at the Atlantic Council and an independent journalist.

The article discusses the revival of the Dabaa nuclear power plant project in Egypt, with Russia's state-owned atomic energy firm, Rosatom, set to produce equipment for the plant. This move has caused concern in the US and Europe due to their strained relations with Russia over the Ukraine conflict. Despite having an energy surplus from renewable sources and recent gas discoveries, Egypt is pursuing the nuclear project for energy diversification and to position itself as a regional energy hub. The article also touches on Egypt's neutral stance in the Russia-Ukraine war, the impact of the war on Egypt's wheat imports, and the country's human rights record. It suggests that the US should continue to support Egypt to maintain regional stability and mutual interests, despite the Biden administration's plans to reduce its Middle East presence. The journalist, Shahira Amin, provides insights into Egypt's international relations, especially with Russia and the West, and the implications for energy security and political dynamics in the region.

In the Guns for Hire podcast, host Alia Brahimi speaks with international lawyer Jason McCue about lawfare, a strategy of using law for strategic advantage. McCue discusses its origins in the 1990s against the IRA and its current application against the Wagner Group, a private military company involved in various conflicts. He leads a global programme of Ukrainian victim-led litigations and advocates for the designation of the Wagner Group as terrorists. McCue also shares his experiences of being sanctioned by Russia and his investigative work on the IRA's connections to Libya, particularly the Gaddafi regime's provision of semtex to the IRA.

Egypt is grappling with an economic crisis characterized by soaring inflation, currency devaluation, and increased living costs. The inflation rate hit 22% in December 2022, the highest since 2017. The Egyptian pound's value has dropped, prompting a third devaluation within a year. The IMF has agreed to a $3 billion loan to help stabilize the economy, which requires economic reforms including reducing the military's economic role. Analysts cite global disruptions and government misspending as causes for the crisis. The military's economic dominance is a concern, with the IMF pushing for privatization to enhance competitiveness. Gulf states have invested heavily in Egypt to prevent regional instability, but sustainable economic development remains a challenge. The article suggests that Egypt needs to create a favorable investment climate for local businesses to achieve long-term stability.

In Cairo, the Meyr Biton Synagogue hosted a Hanukkah celebration attended by diplomats, Jewish expats, and a few of Egypt's remaining Jewish community members. Security was heightened for the event in Maadi, a neighborhood known for its lush surroundings. Magda Haroun, the head of Egypt’s Jewish community since 2013, highlighted the poignant reality that only three elderly women remain of the once sizable Jewish population in Egypt. The gathering underscored the dwindling presence of Jews in the country and the efforts to maintain their cultural traditions.

Egypt is preparing for a national political dialogue between the government and the country's political forces, scheduled for early July. This dialogue comes in response to President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's call for a comprehensive societal dialogue to discuss national priorities. President Sisi emphasized the importance of inclusivity in the dialogue, stating that it must involve all political parties without discrimination. The announcement was made during an Iftar banquet in late April, which was attended by various opposition figures.

The article discusses the preparations and controversies surrounding the 2022 United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP27) in Sharm el Sheikh, Egypt. Skeptics criticize Egypt's leadership due to human rights concerns and environmental policies. Despite this, Egypt has made efforts to improve its climate adaptation and human rights record. The article highlights the country's reliance on fossil fuels, systematic destruction of green spaces, and the government's crackdown on dissent. It also covers the US's response to Egypt's human rights issues, including withholding military aid, and the anticipated support for Egypt's National Nexus of Water, Food, and Energy initiative. The article concludes by acknowledging Egypt's progress in climate change mitigation and adaptation, such as constructing desalination plants and increasing renewable energy capacity, while urging further political and environmental reforms.

The article discusses the unexpected release of a number of Egyptian political prisoners in late April, including journalists, opposition activists, and lawmakers. These individuals had been held in pretrial detention on charges such as spreading fake news and collaborating with a terrorist organization, charges that are commonly used against critics of the government to suppress opposition. This release marks the second batch of detainees freed since July of the previous year.

The Egyptian parliament is reviewing an amendment to increase the punishment for domestic abuse. The proposed change to Article 242 of the Penal Code would raise the maximum jail sentence for an abusive husband from one year to up to five years, with a minimum of three years. The amendment, introduced by MP Amal Salama, is part of efforts to address Egypt's high divorce rates, which saw 213,000 divorces in 2020, indicating a significant social issue with a divorce occurring every two minutes.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has proposed an increase in the price of subsidized bread, a staple for at least 60 million Egyptians. This suggestion was made during the inauguration of a food production plant in Sadat City. The proposal has led to a polarized response among Egyptians, with some supporting it as a necessary economic measure, while others view it as an additional burden on the population, especially those who are economically disadvantaged.

Egyptian actress Hala Shiha has faced criticism and a ban from the Actors Syndicate after making controversial statements on Instagram, where she called working in the entertainment industry 'sinful.' Her comments followed the release of a music video with singer Tamer Hosni from their film 'Not me.' Shiha, who has recently returned to wearing the hijab, has renounced acting for the second time, leading to speculation that her husband, Islamic preacher Mo'ez Massoud, influenced her decision. The incident has sparked a debate reflecting the tensions between secular and Salafist views in Egypt.

The article discusses the upcoming opening of the Grand Egyptian Museum in Egypt, which is expected to happen before the end of the year. It raises the question of what will become of the Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, a major tourist attraction located in downtown Cairo's Tahrir Square. The Egyptian Museum of Antiquities, housed in a Beaux-Arts building from the early 20th century, has faced criticism for its cramped display space leading to overcrowding. The article implies that the new museum may take over as the main showcase for Egypt's antiquities.

Egypt has played a pivotal role in mediating a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas, ending 11 days of conflict that resulted in significant casualties on both sides. The cease-fire was announced by Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu following the acceptance of Egypt's proposal for an unconditional bilateral truce. The move by Egypt is notable due to its recent closer ties with Israel and its historical view of Hamas as an affiliate of the banned Muslim Brotherhood. The conflict has seen a high death toll in Gaza and fatalities in Israel.

Human rights lawyers in Egypt have reported to Al-Monitor that Egyptian security forces have arrested individuals in Cairo for showing solidarity with Gaza and Jerusalem by raising Palestinian flags. Some of those arrested have been forcibly disappeared, while others are detained awaiting review by the Supreme State Security Prosecution. The article includes an account from Hazem Hosam Eddine, a lawyer, about the arrest of Ahmed Alaa on May 14 after he was seen with a Palestinian flag post-Friday prayer in the Dokki district.

The article discusses the acceleration of the COVID-19 vaccination campaign in Egypt, highlighting the expansion of the vaccine rollout to include the elderly and people with chronic diseases. The Ministry of Health and Population has set up nearly 140 vaccination centers nationwide. Fatma El Zahra, a 68-year-old housewife, shared her experience of registering for the vaccine and receiving a prompt appointment. The Egyptian government had initially focused on vaccinating health practitioners and is now broadening its efforts as announced in early March.

On April 3, 2021, a grand procession took place in Cairo, where 22 royal mummies, including 18 kings and four queens, were moved to their new home at the National Museum of Egyptian Civilization. This event marked the relocation of these ancient rulers from the Egyptian Museum in Tahrir Square, where they had been on display since being transported from the Valley of the Kings in Luxor over a hundred years ago. The parade was a significant cultural event, celebrating Egypt's rich history and the pharaohs' legacy.

The article discusses the personal experience of Nawal El Saadawi with female genital mutilation (FGM). It references a passage from her memoir where she describes the lasting impact of the procedure, which she underwent at the age of six. The article highlights the traumatic nature of FGM and its lifelong consequences on individuals who undergo it.

The article discusses the upcoming ruling by Egypt's Court of Cassation on March 10 regarding the appeal to remove Ramy Shaath and 11 other detainees from Egypt's terrorist list. Ramy Shaath is a Palestinian-Egyptian political activist and the leader of the Egypt branch of the BDS movement. He was arrested on July 5, 2019, and has since been detained at Tora prison in Cairo. The ruling is significant as it pertains to a high-profile figure, Ramy Shaath, who is also the son of the well-known Palestinian politician Nabil Shaath.

Asmaa Mahfouz, once celebrated as a heroine for her role in the 2011 Egyptian uprising, is now facing societal rejection. A decade ago, she was one of the founders of the April 6 Youth Movement, which played a significant part in mobilizing the protests that led to the ousting of President Hosni Mubarak. Despite her past acclaim, Mahfouz's current situation highlights the irony of being marginalized for the same actions that once made her an icon of the revolution. Her call to action in 2011 through a YouTube video remains a poignant reminder of her influence on the events in Tahrir Square.

A court ruling in Egypt has acquitted three men, a father and his two sons, who were previously sentenced to 10 years in prison for attacking and humiliating an elderly Coptic Christian woman. The incident, which occurred four years ago, involved the men stripping the woman naked and dragging her through the streets of an Upper Egyptian village. The acquittal by the Minya Criminal Court on December 17 has led to a public outcry from human rights groups and the Christian community in Egypt. The case saw several judges recusing themselves over the last 11 months, with no clear reasons provided.

The article discusses the importance of women's economic participation and female entrepreneurship to economic growth and development, highlighting the gender gap in access to resources and opportunities. Despite women constituting half of the global population, their entrepreneurship rates are lower than men's, representing a significant untapped economic potential. The article mentions recent efforts to empower women economically, including a virtual conference hosted by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO) in partnership with UN Women, the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), and the Italian government. These interventions aim to build women's resilience to global challenges and crises, thereby helping to bridge the gender gap.

The article discusses the rising tensions between Al-Azhar, the highest religious authority in Sunni Islam, and the Egyptian government led by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. This conflict has been sparked by a draft law approved by Egypt's House of Representatives, which aims to regulate the activities of Dar al-Ifta, an institution affiliated with Al-Azhar that issues religious edicts. The proposed law would change the process of selecting the grand mufti, the head of Dar al-Ifta, by removing the current method of secret ballot voting, which was introduced by the late President Mohammed Morsi of the Muslim Brotherhood in 2012. The bill is currently under review by the State Council before it can be finalized by the parliament.

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has issued a warning that Egypt might intervene militarily in Libya if Turkish-backed forces move towards the city of Sirte. This statement has received a mixed response from those involved in the Libyan conflict. The Libyan Parliament, which is aligned with eastern commander Khalifa Hifter, has expressed support for Sisi's remarks. A statement from the House of Representatives indicated that speaker Aguila Saleh had previously requested Cairo's assistance against terrorism and foreign invasion in January.

The article discusses the recent trend of the hashtag #pyramids on Twitter, which has gained attention not because of Egypt's plans to reopen tourism or travelers' anticipation to visit the Giza monuments post-coronavirus, but due to a debate over the historical construction of the Pyramids. The online discussion has centered around the controversial idea of whether the Pyramids, built over 4,000 years ago during Egypt's Old Kingdom and believed to be tombs for the pharaohs, should be demolished because of claims that they were constructed by slaves.

The article discusses the Egyptian government's intensified efforts to suppress free expression, focusing on the recent targeting of YouTubers and social media influencers, especially women. It highlights the arrests and prosecutions faced by these individuals and notes that this is part of a broader pattern of repression in Egypt, where numerous bloggers and activists have been detained for their online activities. The source Refworld is cited to emphasize the ongoing issue of arbitrary detention for social media posts in the country.

A Muslim man asked during a Q&A video session on Dar al-Ifta's Facebook page whether zakat, the annual alms required under Islam, can be given to non-Muslims while living in a foreign country. The session, which took place on May 12 and was later deleted, featured a cleric who responded that zakat should only be given to Muslims. However, the cleric mentioned that 'sadaqah,' which is a less formal type of Islamic charity, can be given to non-Muslims.

Egyptian actor Hesham Selim appeared in a TV interview on Al-Kahera Wal Nas Channel, where he spoke about his child's gender transition. He revealed that his daughter Noura is now his son Nour and expressed that he had sensed Nour's gender identity from the time Nour was born. Hesham Selim's acceptance and public discussion of his child's transgender identity is significant in a society where such topics are often considered taboo.

Egyptian lawyer Mohamed Talaat is planning to sue the Chinese government, seeking $10 trillion in compensation for damages caused to Egypt by the coronavirus outbreak. Talaat has issued a formal notice to the Chinese Embassy in Cairo, indicating his intention to bring the case to the International Court of Justice in The Hague. He alleges that the coronavirus is a biological weapon developed in a Chinese laboratory, which has resulted in harm to Egypt.

The article discusses the challenges faced by TV production companies in the Arab World as they prepare for the upcoming Ramadan season amidst the coronavirus pandemic. Ramadan soaps, which are a cultural staple during the Muslim fasting month, are at risk due to restrictions aimed at preventing the spread of COVID-19. The cast and crew are finding it difficult to continue filming, which could impact the availability of these popular shows that families and friends traditionally watch together after Iftar.

In Egypt, medical personnel are voicing their concerns about the challenges they face in the battle against COVID-19. Despite being praised as heroes on television, doctors and nurses are highlighting serious issues within the healthcare system. They point to a lack of testing, insufficient medical supplies, and inadequate protective gear, which they believe puts both their own and their families' lives at risk. Additionally, there are accusations on social media that hospital administrators and authorities are downplaying the severity of the pandemic to avoid causing public alarm.

The article discusses the initial response to the coronavirus outbreak in Egypt. It highlights the denial and dismissive attitude of Egyptians towards COVID-19 when it first appeared in the country in February. The Egyptian media, internet users, and some celebrities are mentioned as having treated the virus as a hoax, with some even joking about it. The article specifically notes that Egyptian film stars at the Luxor African Film Festival mocked the pandemic when asked about its threat.

The Egyptian government, facing criticism from rights groups, has implemented new measures to combat the COVID-19 pandemic. These include a nationwide curfew from 7 p.m. to 6 a.m., starting March 25 for two weeks, and the suspension of all non-essential government services. Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly announced the closure of malls, gyms, sporting clubs, restaurants, and cafes, although delivery services will continue during non-curfew hours. Shops, excluding supermarkets, bakeries, and pharmacies, must close by 5 p.m. on weekdays and will not open on weekends. Public transportation will also be suspended during curfew hours, affecting millions of commuters in the Greater Cairo region.

Sudan has declined to support an Arab League resolution that backs Egypt in its negotiations with Ethiopia regarding the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD). The Arab League had issued a statement after a meeting on March 5, asserting Egypt's historical rights to the Nile waters and calling on Ethiopia to comply with international law. This stance is seen as part of the Arab national security. Sudan's rejection of the resolution has surprised the Arab League and caused concern for Egypt, given the critical importance of the Nile waters for the country.

Egypt is actively working to strengthen its laws against female genital mutilation (FGM) by closing existing legal loopholes. The announcement, made by Maya Morsy, the head of Egypt's National Council for Women, indicates that a committee is being formed to review the current law and recommend necessary amendments. The goal of these changes is to ensure that health practitioners and families cannot avoid punishment for participating in or facilitating the practice of FGM, which is illegal in the country.

Dar al-Ifta, an Egyptian religious authority, has issued a warning to Egyptians against watching Turkish TV drama series. This warning aligns with the existing ban on Turkish TV series on Egypt's pro-government channels since 2013. The move has sparked discussion on social media, particularly because the warning came from a religious institution rather than a political one. Kamal Amer, the head of parliament's Security Committee, justified the warning by stating that protecting national security is within Dar al-Ifta's remit. The context of this warning is the tense diplomatic relations between Egypt and Turkey.

A member of Egypt's parliamentary Human Rights Committee has proposed an amendment to the country's Personal Status Law that would limit women's right to divorce. The amendment to Article 20 would only allow Egyptian women to seek a divorce in cases of 'extreme harm.' This would restrict 'khul' divorces to specific circumstances such as a husband's infidelity, impotence, infertility, imprisonment, severe physical abuse, or abandonment for over two years. The proposal has sparked controversy and is pending approval by the House of Representatives.

Mohamed Ali, an Egyptian construction contractor, has accused the Egyptian president and military of corruption through videos on Twitter and Facebook. Ali, who is in self-imposed exile in Barcelona, claims the military has not paid his company, Amlaak Group, for several projects, including a new presidential palace and a luxury hotel. Despite not providing evidence, Ali's allegations have stirred controversy in Egypt and gained him a significant following on social media.

Reem Mehanna, a 38-year-old Egyptian woman, sparked a social controversy when she revealed in a Facebook video that she had frozen her eggs to increase her chances of having children in the future. Her announcement, which went viral, ignited a public debate in Egypt about the ethics of non-medically necessary fertility treatments in a conservative society where there is significant pressure on young women to marry and bear children before the age of 30. The issue of egg freezing had previously been brought to public attention through the Egyptian TV drama 'Sabae Gar' ('Seventh Neighbor'), which was criticized on social media for its portrayal of a woman considering egg preservation.

The article discusses the closure of the Syrian-owned restaurant 'Bride of Damascus' in Alexandria, Egypt, due to alleged health code violations. This incident has heightened concerns among the Syrian community about increased restrictions on their businesses and has also led to a rise in hostility towards Syrian refugees in Egypt. The closure followed a lawsuit from a resident living in the same building as the restaurant, who claimed that gas cylinders in the restaurant posed a danger. The situation escalated after a video was posted on Twitter showing the restaurant owner's dismissive response to the complainant's elderly mother, which led to the involvement of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi.

On August 5, just before midnight, a deadly explosion occurred outside the National Cancer Institute (NCI) in the central Cairo neighborhood of Manial, leaving 22 people dead and dozens injured. Initial reports from pro-government news outlets like Youm7 suggested that an oxygen tank had exploded inside the institute. However, Cairo University refuted these claims, stating that the explosion was the result of a car collision outside the hospital, which also caused significant damage to the building's facade. The death toll may increase as some of the injured are in critical condition.

The article discusses the issue of child marriage in southern Egypt, focusing on the story of Malak Abdel Hakim, a 15-year-old girl who was forced to drop out of school to conform to social norms. Despite the legal minimum age for marriage being 18, child marriages are prevalent in marginalized communities to reduce financial burdens. Families often delay the official registration of these marriages until the girls reach the legal age. The article cites a 2017 census by CAPMAS, which indicates that 15% of Egyptian girls are married before 16. However, there has been a decline in child marriages due to increased awareness of the associated health risks and domestic violence.

The article discusses the preparations for the Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) in Egypt and the notable absence of discussions about the Ultras, the hardcore soccer fans, in Egyptian media. The Ultras, known for their organizational skills and political activism, played a significant role in the January 25 Revolution in 2011 that led to the overthrow of President Hosni Mubarak. However, their public perception has shifted from heroes to troublemakers, influenced by a 2015 court ruling that outlawed their existence and a ban on attending live games. Despite a partial lift of the ban in 2018, the Ultras have lost their main space of public expression, and the ban is still effectively in place according to Ziad Akl, a senior researcher at Al Ahram Center for Political and Strategic Studies.

In Egypt, a social media campaign urging parents to dress their daughters modestly for the Ramadan fasting period has caused a stir. The campaign, which started just before Ramadan, has been met with criticism from liberal activists and women's rights advocates who find the notion that women's clothing can distract men from fasting to be offensive. Despite this, the campaign has found support among conservative circles in Egypt's patriarchal society.

The article discusses a significant change in Egypt's stance regarding the political situation in Sudan. Cairo, which had seemed to support Sudanese President Omar al-Bashir, shifted its position following his removal from power on April 11. The Egyptian Foreign Ministry issued a statement endorsing the Sudanese people's decision and urging the international community to assist Sudan in a peaceful transition. This development was unexpected to some observers, given Egypt's previous apparent support for President Bashir before his ouster by the military.

Egyptian actors Amr Waked and Khaled Abu El Naga are facing accusations of 'high treason' after they criticized the Egyptian government's alleged human rights violations and lobbied against proposed constitutional amendments during a meeting with US members of Congress. These amendments, which have already passed a preliminary vote in Egypt's pro-government parliament, would potentially allow President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to stay in power until 2034 and are said to entrench military rule. A final parliamentary vote is scheduled for April 14, followed by a national referendum.

A Cairo court has postponed the verdict in the retrial of three Al Jazeera journalists, causing frustration among journalists and activists. The trial, criticized as farcical by international rights organizations, has been ongoing since 2014. The case has damaged Egypt's reputation and highlighted its poor press freedom record. Despite government claims that the journalists were involved in terrorist activities, rights groups argue the charges are politically motivated. The trial has sparked a pushback from journalists, who are increasingly vocal against censorship and repression. The outcome of the trial could have significant implications for press freedom in Egypt.

Amidst ongoing repression and unmet goals of the 2011 Egyptian revolution, citizens have become more empowered and engaged in community initiatives. Despite economic challenges and restrictive laws, a culture of volunteerism and civic participation is growing. Informal organizations and youth-led projects are addressing issues like poverty, illiteracy, and sexual harassment. Notable efforts include the Union of Media Women, which supports female journalists, and artistic initiatives like 'Colouring the Grey City' that beautify public spaces. These movements keep the spirit of inclusion, equality, and non-violence alive, fostering hope for a more equitable Egypt.

Millions of Egyptians protested against President Mohamed Morsi in 2013, leading to his overthrow and the rise of Abdel Fattah al-Sisi. While Morsi's rule was feared for potential Islamist policies, the current regime has been criticized for severe human rights abuses, including crackdowns on journalists, activists, and the LGBT community. Despite initial hopes for a more progressive constitution, the military-backed government has used religion to justify repressive measures, undermining civil liberties and altering Egypt's moderate identity.

A Cairo Court upheld death sentences against former President Mohamed Morsi and several Muslim Brotherhood leaders, sparking condemnation from human rights groups and the Brotherhood. The verdicts, seen as politically motivated, have been criticized for due process violations and are feared to escalate violence in Egypt. Human Rights Watch and Amnesty International have called for retrials, citing biased judiciary and lack of accountability for security forces. The Egyptian media and government are accused of fueling animosity against the Brotherhood, potentially leading to further radicalization and violence.