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Joint exercises planned as Cairo and Ankara expand defense cooperation
CARIO/ANKARA, (HAN) — A new wave of speculation is spreading across the Middle East as Egypt and Turkey move to deepen their military cooperation. The two regional powers, historically influential in shaping the region’s politics, have recently expanded their partnership in the defense sector, drawing both interest and concern from governments and analysts.
Officials confirmed that the Egyptian and Turkish armed forces are planning a major joint military exercise at the end of this year, marking the latest sign of a growing strategic alliance. The move follows a series of diplomatic engagements aimed at strengthening ties between Cairo and Ankara after years of strained relations.
“Bringing together Egypt’s manpower and Turkey’s advanced military technology could alter the regional balance of power,” said Dr. Lina Hariri, a Middle East security analyst based in Amman. “Neighboring states will be watching this very closely.”
Egypt commands one of the largest armies in North Africa, while Turkey, a NATO member, is regarded as a leading military force in the Eastern Mediterranean. The partnership could extend influence over key geopolitical areas, including the Red Sea, Libya, and contested waters in the Mediterranean.
Not all regional actors welcome the development. Gulf states, Israel, and Western partners are assessing whether the alliance could challenge their security interests or complicate existing defense frameworks. “The timing of this cooperation is critical,” noted Ahmed Khaled, a Cairo-based political commentator. “It comes at a moment when the Middle East is already facing heightened tensions and shifting alliances.”
While the exact objectives of the alliance remain unclear, analysts suggest it could be designed either as a stabilizing force or as the foundation of a new bloc seeking greater regional influence.
For now, attention is focused on the upcoming joint drills, which will serve as a major test of the Egyptian–Turkish partnership. As Dr. Hariri observed, “This exercise will not only showcase military strength but also send a political message to the region and beyond.”
