US Waives Human Rights Restrictions on $320 Million in Military Aid to Egypt

Secretary of State Marco Rubio has waived a restriction on $320 million in military aid to Egypt that had been previously withheld over human rights concerns, citing the country's cooperation in addressing regional security challenges, particularly its role in managing the conflict involving Iran.

The State Department announced Thursday that Rubio signed off on the waiver "in the interest of U.S. national security." The department stated that the Secretary's decision reflects "the importance of Egypt to U.S. national security interests, and the concrete security cooperation Egypt provides to the United States."

Rubio's decision, detailed in a letter to lawmakers, specifically highlighted Egypt's "helpful role" in the ongoing conflict, noting its mediation efforts between the U.S. and Iran. Egypt has been a key intermediary in attempts to de-escalate the conflict, which has lasted over seven months.

The State Department affirmed that it would continue to address human rights issues with Egypt as part of broader bilateral discussions. The waiver acknowledges the significance of maintaining security cooperation with Egypt amid substantial regional security challenges.

The $320 million in question is part of Egypt's annual $1.3 billion in U.S. economic and military assistance. This specific portion is designated for foreign military financing, enabling Egypt to acquire U.S.-produced weaponry.

Congress had previously placed the restriction on this aid due to concerns regarding Egypt's human rights record. Reports from various sources, including the State Department itself, have pointed to issues such as torture, arbitrary arrests, child labor, and restrictions on freedom of expression.

However, granting waivers for aid to Egypt has become a common practice for successive U.S. administrations, both Republican and Democratic. The Biden administration, for instance, issued a similar waiver in September 2024, also citing Egypt's contribution to efforts to end the Israel-Hamas war in Gaza.