The Continuing Unrest in Egypt
The overthrow of Hosni Mubarak's long rule in Egypt was met with much joy and celebration in Egypt in February of this year. Mr. Mubarak, an ally of the United States, had become too entrenched for the masses of Egyptians who wanted him removed. Luckily, he did not suffer the same fate at Colonel Qaddafi. He came to power after the assassination of Anwar Sadat and ruled for more than 30 years. The Muslim Brotherhood, which was outlawed under Mr. Mubarak, had played a key role in some of the protests earlier this year.
Sadly, the protesters have come back to Tahrir Square. This square was the scene of violence during the quest for new leadership. At least 38 people have been killed during the recent protests against the slow turnover of power from the military leaders. What is occuring now should make those of us living in the United States grateful for the civilliberties that we enjoy. There have been offers for the present leadership to resign. Will a change in leadership address the issues of poverty and disenchantment that many people are experiencing in Egypt? Will our government endorse someone to lead Egypt through what would seem to be a tumultuous road to travel towards peace?
This is the land of the Pharoahs and many scholars go there to study the success of kingdoms from centuries ago. My hope is that the leaders there will work to address the simmering issues that lead to the continuing unrest.
P.S. There was an article Sunday in the Washington Post about the continuing struggles for women's rights in Egypt. With the election of President Mohamed Morsi, it seems like Egypt is heading back towards an Islamic state. The recent attacks on the U.S. Embassy in Cairo were not condemned until President Obama wavered on whether Egypt was an ally or not. Something about the $1 billion in aid with give them a year caused a slight apology (October 2012).
Sadly, the protesters have come back to Tahrir Square. This square was the scene of violence during the quest for new leadership. At least 38 people have been killed during the recent protests against the slow turnover of power from the military leaders. What is occuring now should make those of us living in the United States grateful for the civilliberties that we enjoy. There have been offers for the present leadership to resign. Will a change in leadership address the issues of poverty and disenchantment that many people are experiencing in Egypt? Will our government endorse someone to lead Egypt through what would seem to be a tumultuous road to travel towards peace?
This is the land of the Pharoahs and many scholars go there to study the success of kingdoms from centuries ago. My hope is that the leaders there will work to address the simmering issues that lead to the continuing unrest.
P.S. There was an article Sunday in the Washington Post about the continuing struggles for women's rights in Egypt. With the election of President Mohamed Morsi, it seems like Egypt is heading back towards an Islamic state. The recent attacks on the U.S. Embassy in Cairo were not condemned until President Obama wavered on whether Egypt was an ally or not. Something about the $1 billion in aid with give them a year caused a slight apology (October 2012).
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