Petition in Egypt calls for expulsion of US and Israeli ambassadors
Mamdouh Hamza
An Egyptian political activist launched a petition calling for the expulsion of the US and Israeli ambassadors from Cairo over the war on Iran, as reported by The New Arab and agencies on March 12th.
Mamdouh Hamza, a critic of President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, posted the petition on Facebook, urging public figures and ordinary citizens to sign it. The campaign calls on Egyptian authorities to expel the diplomats of both countries.
Hamza said the demand was linked to the rise in fuel prices in Egypt following Iran’s effective closure of the Strait of Hormuz, a key route for global oil supplies.
The Egyptian government increased fuel prices by 17% to 30% on March 10th, citing higher international energy costs linked to the war in Iran.
Higher fuel costs have also pushed up the price of basic necessities, which were already expensive before the war. The increases have added to public frustration over rising living costs.
Hundreds of supportive comments appeared within hours of the petition’s posting. Many responses linked the campaign to anger over the fuel price increase and the pressure it has placed on households.
Public anger over the price rise has also spread on social media in Egypt. Some activists have criticised the government’s economic policies and warned of further protests if the decision is not reversed.
Political activist Kamal Abu Eita said the policies of the United States and Israel were affecting regional stability and security. He added that the war on Iran was harming Egypt’s economy and worsening living conditions for many people.
Egypt has faced mounting economic pressure in recent years, including currency weakness and rising living costs. Economists have said the war on Iran had contributed to the flight of billions of dollars in foreign assets from Egypt.
Millions of Egyptians live and work abroad, particularly in Gulf countries. Money they send home is a major source of foreign currency for Egypt’s economy.
The New Arab and agencies, Maghrebi.org
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