Egypt’s Calculated Moves Could Prevent Regional Chaos, Says Abdel Rahim Ali
Saturday 28/February/2026 - 10:15 PM
Cairo Seen as a Stabilizing Force Amid Escalation
Political thinker and journalist Abdel Rahim Ali, head of the Middle East Studies Center in Paris, said Egypt’s “calculated and prudent” diplomatic moves could make a decisive difference in preventing the region from sliding into widespread chaos.
Amid mounting instability and escalating tensions, Ali emphasized that Cairo plays a pivotal and influential role due to its political weight, historical experience, and balanced relations with regional and international actors. These factors, he argued, enhance prospects for de-escalation and crisis containment.
He added that Egyptian efforts are primarily aimed at protecting regional security and preventing the conflict from expanding, describing Egypt as a cornerstone of stability in the Middle East during this critical phase.
“Balance Wheel” of the Region
Speaking to Al-Qahera News Channel about the repercussions of the U.S.–Israeli strike on Iran, Ali said Egypt carries a major responsibility to prevent regional disorder, calling it the “balance wheel” and a strategic “joker” in regional politics because of its influence and standing.
He noted that Iran had, until the early hours of the day, a significant opportunity to secure a preliminary agreement with the United States. Failure to reach such a deal, he warned, could accelerate the crisis and prolong the war for several more weeks.
Egypt Positioned to Mediate U.S.–Iran Crisis
Ali argued that Egypt is currently the only country capable of playing a tangible, on-the-ground role in helping resolve the U.S.–Iran confrontation. He said Cairo’s diplomatic reach and credibility place it in a unique position to facilitate dialogue or de-escalation efforts.
According to Ali, the strategic objective of the United States and Israel is to topple the Iranian regime, dismantle its nuclear program and ballistic missile capabilities, and weaken Tehran’s regional proxy networks. If these goals are not achieved, he cautioned, the conflict could become protracted and further destabilize the region.
Preventing a Wider War
Ali concluded that the success or failure of Egypt’s diplomatic engagement may prove decisive in determining whether the current confrontation remains contained or escalates into a broader regional conflict with far-reaching consequences.
