America releases $320 million in military aid to Egypt
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio waived a restriction that had blocked $320 million in military aid to Egypt, previously held due to human rights concerns, citing Egypt's role in dealing with Iran since the start of the conflict this year.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio approved a waiver to release $320 million in military aid to Egypt, funds that had been previously withheld due to human rights concerns. Rubio cited Egypt's assistance in dealing with Iran since the start of the conflict earlier this year, describing its role as "constructive" and a key mediator between the United States and Iran in efforts to end the ongoing conflict of over seven months. The US State Department said Rubio signed the waiver "in the interest of US national security," and affirmed that the decision reflects Egypt's importance to national security interests and the tangible security cooperation it provides. The department added that the Trump administration will continue to raise human rights issues in its dialogue with Egypt. The $320 million is part of an annual $1.3 billion contribution of economic and military aid to Egypt, designated for foreign military financing to purchase American-made weapons.