Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi expressed gratitude for Donald Trump’s recent offer to mediate the ongoing dispute over the Nile River waters with Ethiopia. This comes as both nations grapple with a decades-long conflict concerning water security, which has intensified following Ethiopia’s construction of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam.
In a letter addressed to El-Sisi on October 23, 2020, Trump stated he was “ready to restart U.S. mediation between Egypt and Ethiopia to responsibly resolve the question of ‘The Nile Water Sharing’ once and for all.” El-Sisi responded positively, emphasizing the Nile River’s significance, describing it as “the lifeline of the Egyptian people.” He reaffirmed Egypt’s support for Trump’s mediation efforts.
The dispute escalated notably in September 2020 when Ethiopia initiated the filling of the dam, a project valued at $5 billion. Egypt, which relies almost entirely on the Nile for its freshwater, raised alarms that the dam could drastically diminish its water supply, especially if Ethiopia fills the reservoir too quickly. While Ethiopia aims to boost its energy production and position itself as a significant player in power exports, Egypt contends that the dam violates international treaties concerning water rights.
Both nations have voiced concerns about potential military action if diplomatic channels fail. El-Sisi stated that Egypt is committed to cooperative engagement with the Nile Basin countries, stressing adherence to international law to pursue shared interests without harm to any party involved.
Sudan’s military leader, Abdel Fattah al-Burhan, also welcomed Trump’s offer for mediation, reflecting a regional interest in resolving the conflict peacefully. The U.S. has previously played a role in these negotiations, and Trump’s administration has shown a consistent engagement with both Egypt and Ethiopia on this issue.
Trump’s history of support for Egypt was highlighted during his visit to the country in October 2020, where he signed a deal concerning the Gaza conflict. He has previously reiterated Egypt’s concerns about the dam, even stating, “They’ll blow up that dam. And they have to do something,” in reference to the escalating tensions. Ethiopian Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed countered these remarks, asserting that Ethiopia would not succumb to any form of aggression.
In light of these developments, Egypt’s Foreign Ministry announced that El-Sisi is considering an invitation from Trump to join a “Board of Peace” for Gaza, which would form part of a broader strategy for long-term peace in the region.
As negotiations continue, the stakes remain high for all parties involved. The Nile River’s waters are not only critical for Egypt’s survival but also central to Ethiopia’s aspirations for economic growth and energy independence. The international community is watching closely as these discussions unfold, hoping for a peaceful resolution that meets the needs of both nations.
