Cairo is grappling with mounting diplomatic and security challenges as protests targeting Egyptian embassies in multiple countries escalate over its handling of the Gaza crisis. Demonstrators, angered by what they perceive as Egypt’s inconsistent role in brokering a ceasefire, have staged rallies outside missions in Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
According to eyewitnesses, several of these protests have turned violent, prompting Egyptian security personnel and local police forces to intervene forcefully. In some cases, demonstrators clashed with authorities, resulting in injuries and multiple arrests.
Analysts say the protests underscore a growing frustration with Egypt’s balancing act positioning itself as a mediator in the Israel-Hamas conflict while simultaneously being accused of tightening restrictions at the Rafah crossing, Gaza’s main gateway to the outside world.
Egyptian officials, however, insist their efforts remain focused on securing a sustainable ceasefire and addressing the dire humanitarian situation in Gaza. Still, critics argue that Cairo’s approach is being tested both domestically and internationally, as public anger rises and diplomatic tensions mount.
The latest unrest adds pressure on President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi’s government, which is keen to maintain its role as a key regional powerbroker while avoiding a political backlash at home and abroad.
