Abstract
In Chapter 3, we explore the response of Egypt to a nuclear-armed Iran. Egypt and Iran are natural regional rivals due to similarities in geographical size and imperial pasts, and differences in religion (predominantly Sunni Arab versus Shiite Persian populations). This rivalry is borne out through a long history of strained relations and opposition. Against this backdrop, it is often assumed that Egypt would follow Iran down the nuclear path. Drawing on historical context, technical capabilities, economic policies and the Egypt-US relationship, the chapter challenges this assumption, arguing that the balance of evidence suggests that Egypt would decide against the nuclear option.
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Notes
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© 2014 Christopher Hobbs and Matthew Moran
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Hobbs, C., Moran, M. (2014). Egypt: Domestic Uncertainty, Nuclear Consistency. In: Exploring Regional Responses to a Nuclear Iran: Nuclear Dominoes?. Palgrave Pivot, London. https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137369819_4
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1057/9781137369819_4
Publisher Name: Palgrave Pivot, London
Print ISBN: 978-1-349-47507-0
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