Egypt’s Sisi Urges U.S. and Global Powers to Act on Nile Dispute with Ethiopia

Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has called on the United States and the wider international community to play a more active role in resolving the long-running dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Nile River.

The appeal comes amid renewed tensions surrounding Ethiopia’s Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD), a massive hydroelectric project on the Blue Nile that has been a source of disagreement between the two nations for more than a decade.

President Sisi emphasized that the Nile is a matter of national security for Egypt, which relies on the river for the vast majority of its water supply. He urged global powers, particularly the United States, to intensify diplomatic efforts and help push for a binding agreement that ensures fair water sharing and protects downstream countries.

The United States has already signaled interest in re-engaging in the dispute, with former President Donald Trump expressing willingness to mediate talks between Egypt and Ethiopia in a bid to reach a lasting resolution.

At the heart of the disagreement is Ethiopia’s dam, which it views as critical to its economic development and energy generation. Once fully operational, the dam is expected to significantly boost Ethiopia’s electricity output and support industrial growth. However, Egypt fears that the dam could reduce water flow downstream, especially during drought periods, threatening agriculture and livelihoods.

Despite years of negotiations involving regional and international actors, the two countries have yet to reach a comprehensive agreement on how the dam will be filled and operated. Egypt has repeatedly called for legally binding guarantees, while Ethiopia maintains its right to utilize its natural resources for development.

Analysts say Sisi’s latest call reflects growing urgency in Cairo, as the dispute remains unresolved and tensions periodically resurface. The involvement of global powers like the United States is seen as crucial in breaking the diplomatic deadlock and ensuring a balanced outcome.

As discussions continue, the Nile dispute remains one of Africa’s most significant geopolitical issues, with implications not only for Egypt and Ethiopia but for regional stability and cooperation across the continent.