US Wary of What’s Next for Egypt

Observing the mounting opposition to Egypt’s government, under Hosni Mubarak since 1981, allies including the US and Israel ponder what democratic changes might mean for them. Fair elections could deliver a moderate democratic system or an Islamist one, speculates a team of writers from Politico. US President Barack Obama and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton have gradually relayed the position that transition to a new government is necessary for Egypt. For now, Egypt’s opposition groups have coalesced around Mohamed ElBaradei, former chief of the UN International Atomic Energy Agency. Some Israelis express concern about transition, especially if power is shared with the Muslim Brotherhood, whose members have long opposed Egypt’s agreement with Israel. Ending a repressive regime, opening the nation to human rights and freedom of expression, could stem extremism building over the years. Analysts agree – that Egypt’s next leaders must place priority on domestic concerns rather than international demands. – YaleGlobal