Abdel Moneim Said: The Announcement of the Joint Defense Agreement between Egypt and Sudan is its Activation

Dr. Abdel Moneim Said, writer and political thinker, stated that the statement issued by the Egyptian Presidency on Thursday regarding the Sudanese crisis took on the character of a "public image," noting that the Egyptian-Sudanese relations are historical and have a serious geopolitical status for Egypt.

He added during television remarks on the program "Happening in Egypt" with journalist Sherif Amer on "MBC Egypt" that the Egyptian stance was not "idle" regarding what is happening in Sudan, citing Cairo's reception of Sudanese brothers during the conflict period.

He pointed out that the Egyptian position is principled and firm in supporting the "legitimate government" in any country experiencing division, whether in Yemen, Palestine, or Sudan, noting that legitimate governments are internationally recognized and represent their countries at the United Nations.

He considered that the reference to activating the possibility of the "Joint Defense Agreement" is "its activation," saying: "It has been activated; the announcement is an activation, and in the presence of both presidents and in a joint statement, it is also a political point for the Sudanese, the factions there, and the military and civilian components in Sudan, that it is time to reach the end of the conflict," especially after the horrific crimes in the city of Al-Fashir.

He confirmed that the current situation in Sudan "has become unbearable for anyone," pointing out that what is happening there "may be much worse than what is happening in Gaza, for example."

He emphasized that this stance also represents a message to the Egyptian, Arab, and international public opinion, clarifying Egypt's position based on the unity of Sudan and support for the legitimate authority.

In response to a question about whether this stance is similar to the announcement of "red lines" in Libya, he said: "Yes, and perhaps even more," explaining that the position in Libya was related to a specific incident; but the current position concerns a geopolitical and geostrategic situation.

He stressed that the statement is "a message to those concerned" in the region, and "those who assist the separatist side and the militia side in Sudan."

The Egyptian Presidency said in a statement on Thursday that Egypt is following with great concern the ongoing escalation and severe tension in Sudan, and the resulting horrific massacres and blatant violations of the most basic human rights against Sudanese civilians, especially in the city of Al-Fashir (west).

It added that there are red lines that cannot be crossed or compromised, considering that this directly affects Egyptian national security, including not allowing the separation of any part of Sudanese territory. It also reiterated its firm rejection of the establishment of any parallel entities or recognition thereof, as this affects the unity and territorial integrity of Sudan.

It affirmed "the full right to take all necessary measures and procedures guaranteed by international law," including "activating the joint defense agreement between the two countries to ensure that these red lines are not violated or crossed."