The Biden administration has approved its full $1.3 billion military aid allocation to Egypt, waiving congressional conditions related to human rights concerns.

US Secretary of State Antony Blinken announced that military assistance would not be contingent on Egypt's human rights improvements, emphasizing the country's strategic role.

This decision is justified by the US government as necessary for national security and regional peace efforts, particularly regarding the ongoing Gaza conflict.

The U.S. relies on Egypt to mediate talks between Israel and Hamas, making the aid decision crucial for maintaining stability in the region.

Blinken waived conditions on $225 million of the aid, citing Egypt's importance in mediating the Israel-Hamas conflict and U.S. national security priorities.

Despite the funding, Blinken acknowledged that Egypt has made progress in releasing political prisoners, which helped secure an additional $95 million in assistance.

However, approximately $320 million of military assistance remains conditional, with portions withheld in recent years due to human rights concerns.

Concerns persist over the Egyptian government's human rights abuses, including arbitrary killings, torture, and repression of civil society.

Human Rights Watch reports that while some political prisoners have been released, many more have been arrested, indicating a net increase in repression.

Recent actions by the Egyptian government include the imprisonment of an opposition leader and the prosecution of critics for exercising their freedom of expression.

President el-Sisi has denied the existence of political prisoners, justifying strict measures as necessary for combating terrorism.

Critics highlight a longstanding disconnect between US statements on human rights and its military support for countries with poor human rights records.