Egypt Replaces Intelligence Chief Amid Regional Tensions

Egypt’s Intelligence Chief Replaced Amid Regional Instability

In a significant move, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi of Egypt has replaced the head of the nation’s intelligence services, Gen. Abbas Kamel, as reported by state media on Wednesday. This change comes at a critical time when Egypt is engaged in crucial cease-fire negotiations between Israel and Hamas.

General Kamel has been a pivotal figure in Egypt’s political landscape, overseeing essential domestic and foreign policy initiatives. His role has made him synonymous with the country’s extensive security apparatus, which has been known for its rigorous crackdowns on political dissent. His influence was often viewed as nearly rivaling that of President el-Sisi himself.

The reasons behind el-Sisi’s decision to make this change remain ambiguous. The opaque nature of Egypt’s highest governmental levels suggests that this move may not be fully explained to the public. This leadership shift occurs against the backdrop of heightened regional instability triggered by the ongoing war in Gaza, which is exacerbating Egypt’s already fragile economy and putting significant strain on its longstanding peace treaty with Israel, as well as affecting its relations with both Hamas and the United States.

According to state media and an official statement from the presidency, General Kamel has been succeeded by Maj. Gen. Hassan Mahmoud Rashad, who previously served as a deputy to the outgoing intelligence chief. General Kamel has been assigned a new role as a special envoy and adviser to the president, as well as the general coordinator of the security services. The nature of this new position—whether it is a promotion or a demotion—has yet to be clarified.

General Kamel has been instrumental in mediating important negotiations over the past year, working closely alongside key figures such as William J. Burns, the director of the C.I.A.; David Barnea, the head of Israel’s intelligence agency; and Qatar’s prime minister, Sheikh Mohammed bin Abdulrahman bin Jassim al-Thani. His efforts included brokering a cease-fire between Israel and Hamas in May 2021, highlighting his significance in the region’s diplomatic landscape.

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