Although a powerful peoples' movement has been unfolding in Egypt during the past three weeks I have refrained from commenting because the swirling events have been "beyond my ken" in many respects. Hosni Mubarak is a dictator who some analysts say has pilfered more than 40 billion dollars from his impoverished people. Not only does he syphon support money from Western nations, he gets kick-backs on virtually everything. For example, if a new car dealership opens, Mubarak benefits financially.We have received mixed messages about the possibility of Mubarak being deposed, despite all this. Ironically, one of the biggest concerns, at least in the West, is that a religious group, the Muslim Brotherhood might come to power. Others suggest that this group has limited appeal and isn't a threat. I have also heard that Muslims and Coptic Christians have found common ground in working toward Mubarak's ouster.
Despite Mubarak's speech on Thursday he is now out, the "pharaoh" is gone. We can pray for a
positive new beginning. What is your reaction to all this?
It has been a very interesting situation. The people have certainly spoken!
ReplyDeleteThe reaction from many Arab countries has been interesting. One Lebanese citizen stated that Israel will now be nervous. Mubarek has been fairly pro-Israel and U.S., and the possibility of the conservative Muslim Brotherhood taking over could create tension in Egypt-Israel relations. I hope it doesn't.
Israel really has just two Arab nations that it can consider to be on somewhat friendly terms. Depending on what happens in Egypt, it may only be Jordan remaining.
What has been really surprising is Obama being open about the positive side of Mubarek leaving. Interesting, given it was the Americans who eased Mubarek into power after Sadat's assassinaton.
Change has to come from within. The people are pushing that change. There may be growing pains. They may jump from the frying pan into the fire, but that is how it has to be. No one from outside their border should have anything to do with it.
ReplyDeleteGood luck Egypt.