Egypt’s role in the conflict between Israel and Lebanon

The announcement by Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty regarding his daily communications with international and regional parties in an effort to halt the Israeli aggression on Lebanon came as no surprise to observers. Egypt’s efforts to leverage its relationships within Lebanon and across the region align with its historical approach to dealing with the country. These efforts also reflect Egypt’s current political will to address regional crises, with the aim of preventing further escalation that could harm all parties involved. This risk has loomed over the region since the Oct. 7 attack last year, followed by Israel’s brutal, multifaceted aggression.

As Abdelatty stated on his arrival in Beirut, the “sole objective is to stop Israel’s brutal aggression on Lebanon as quickly as possible.” He also emphasized that Egypt is maintaining “daily communications with all international and regional parties, including the United States, France, the European Union and Arab nations, to put an end to this aggression.”

During his visit, the minister clarified Egypt’s stance on the war Israel is waging against Lebanon, holding meetings with all political factions. However, the question remains: Can Egypt and the broader Arab world’s efforts in supporting Lebanon withstand Western pressures?

The conflict between Israel and Hezbollah escalated dramatically after the events of Oct. 7, 2023, heightening tensions and fears of a broader conflict. As a prominent regional power with a long history of mediation and peacemaking, Egypt is once again in the spotlight as a potential key player in seeking a resolution. However, the complexities of this conflict — rooted in entrenched rivalries and geopolitical interests — present significant challenges.

Egypt’s relationships with Israel and the Arab states position it as a bridge during times of conflict

Dr. Abdellatif El-Menawy

Egypt’s history as a mediator in Middle Eastern disputes spans decades. In the Arab-Israeli conflict, Egypt played a pivotal role through the Camp David Accords of 1978, which established peace between Egypt and Israel and made it the first Arab state to recognize Israel.

In Lebanon, Egypt’s involvement dates back to the 20th century, particularly during the Arab Cold War in the 1950s and 1960s, when Gamal Abdel Nasser supported Arab nationalist movements. During Lebanon’s civil war of 1975 to 1990, Egypt maintained a neutral stance, working through the Arab League to support peace initiatives.

In recent decades, Egypt has continued to play a stabilizing role during political crises, such as the aftermath of Rafik Hariri’s assassination in 2005. Its strategic interest in Lebanon is tied to the broader goals of regional stability, curbing the presence of armed factions and countering rival powers.

Egypt’s relationships with Israel and the Arab states position it as a bridge during times of conflict. For instance, during Israel’s wars on Gaza, Egypt has mediated ceasefires between Israel and Palestinian factions. These experiences provide Egypt with valuable insights into managing asymmetric conflicts involving groups like Hezbollah.

The recent Israeli strikes on Hezbollah in southern Lebanon and the subsequent expansion of the conflict to other parts of Lebanon have heightened the risk of a broader regional escalation, which Egypt is eager to prevent. Alongside other Arab capitals, Cairo could use its diplomatic channels to promote a ceasefire, whether through behind-the-scenes negotiations or multilateral platforms like the Arab League or the UN.

Cairo’s primary objective is to prevent the conflict from escalating into wider violence that could destabilize neighboring countries such as Syria and Jordan. To achieve this, it may engage various Lebanese and regional players, including indirect contact with Hezbollah via intermediaries like France or Qatar, to encourage restraint.

Egypt’s relatively neutral position gives it a unique opportunity to mediate.

The US, as a key ally of Egypt, can support Egyptian mediation efforts by pressuring Israel

Dr. Abdellatif El-Menawy

Additionally, it can contribute to stabilizing Lebanon’s civilian population, which bears the brunt of the conflict. These efforts include providing humanitarian aid, supporting reconstruction and politically backing Lebanese institutions to prevent further state collapse.

Achieving a resolution to the Israel-Hezbollah conflict requires cooperation among regional and international stakeholders. While Egypt’s role is significant, it relies on broader coordination. Regional collaboration is one of the most effective tools for influencing the situation in Lebanon. Cooperation with Saudi Arabia and other Gulf states is particularly vital, as their economic and political influence in Lebanon complements Egypt’s diplomatic efforts.

Iran’s involvement is equally crucial. Egypt’s pragmatic approach toward Tehran, combined with its relations with Arab nations, offers an opportunity to act as a mediator.

The US, as a key ally of Egypt, can support Egyptian mediation efforts by pressuring Israel to accept ceasefire conditions. Cairo’s strong military ties with the US provide it with additional leverage in negotiations.

Although the EU and France have less influence, Paris’ historical ties to Lebanon and its active role in seeking solutions align with Egypt’s interests. Enhanced cooperation between Cairo and Paris could bolster mediation efforts.

While Egypt cannot resolve the conflict between Israel and Hezbollah single-handedly, it can play a constructive role within a multilateral framework. To succeed, Cairo must continue with the steps it has already begun, such as calling for an immediate ceasefire through the Arab League and the UN, strengthening relations with key regional players — particularly Saudi Arabia — and supporting the Lebanese government and military to reduce Hezbollah’s dominance over the state.

Egypt’s role in the Israel-Hezbollah conflict is shaped by its long history, regional relationships and pragmatic approach to diplomacy. Despite the challenges, Egypt’s ability to engage multiple stakeholders and its commitment to regional stability position it as a potential player in de-escalation efforts. To succeed, Egypt must coordinate with regional and international actors, balancing conflicting interests to pave the way for a sustainable resolution.

• Dr. Abdellatif El-Menawy has covered conflicts worldwide. X: @ALMenawy