Egypt

Country
Last Verified: Mar 04, 2026

Occupying the northeast corner of Africa and the Sinai Peninsula, the Arab Republic of Egypt maintains a dual presence as both a Mediterranean and Red Sea power. The record traces its evolution from a cradle of ancient civilization through Greco-Roman, Islamic, and Ottoman periods.

The Nile River serves as the primary hydrological artery, supporting nearly the entire population within its valley and delta. This concentration of human activity distinguishes the nation as the most populous state in the Arab world.

The Suez Canal, an artificial waterway completed in 1869, facilitates approximately 12% of global maritime trade. It remains a major link between the Indian Ocean and the Atlantic Ocean via the Mediterranean Sea.

Operating as a republic, the state exerts influence across the Middle East (/middle-east.html) and Africa. Its diplomatic efforts often center on regional stability, particularly concerning Israel (/israel.html) and Gaza (/gaza.html).

In 2015, the government initiated the construction of the New Administrative Capital east of Cairo. This project aims to relocate the primary seats of power and alleviate the density of the historic capital.

Following the Declaration of Egyptian Independence on February 28, 1922, the nation transitioned from a British protectorate to a sovereign kingdom. This transition marked the beginning of its modern sovereignty and its eventual status as a regional power.

As a founding member of the United Nations (/united-nations.html) and the Arab League, the state maintains a formal presence in international forums. These memberships facilitate its role as a mediator in continental and maritime disputes.

The Numbers

At a Glance

Official Name
Arab Republic of Egypt
Capital
Cairo
Official Language
Arabic
Currency
Egyptian pound (EGP)
Total Area
1,001,450 km²
Geographic Coordinates
26° 00' N, 30° 00' E

Data via Wikidata

In the News

Current Context

  • Egypt and Israel have officially reopened the Rafah Border Crossing for limited traffic and essential...
  • The reopening of the Rafah crossing marks a significant shift in regional logistics, prioritizing the...
  • In international sports, Egypt's national football team reached the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of...

Egypt is currently at the center of regional humanitarian and diplomatic efforts following the reopening of the Rafah Border Crossing. Under a plan brokered by Donald Trump, Egypt and Israel have resumed operations at the crossing to facilitate limited traffic and critical medical evacuations from Gaza. Additionally, the nation recently concluded a high-profile run in the Africa Cup of Nations, reaching the semi-finals before being eliminated by Senegal.

Connections

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Sources

Sources & Citations

  1. [1] Israel Reopens Rafah Border Crossing for Gaza... (bbc.com)
  2. [2] Israel Reopens Rafah Border Crossing for Gaza... (theguardian.com)
  3. [3] Israel Reopens Rafah Border Crossing for Gaza... (foxnews.com)
  4. [4] Senegal Defeats Egypt to Reach AFCON Final... (allafrica.com)
  5. [5] Senegal Defeats Egypt to Reach AFCON Final... (aljazeera.com)
  6. [6] Senegal Defeats Egypt to Reach AFCON Final... (africanews.com)

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