Egyptian Rafale Jets to Aid U.A.E Against Iran

Egypt has flown a squadron of its Rafale fighter jets to the U.A.E. to help Abu Dhabi defend itself against Iranian drones and missiles.

U.A.E. President Mohamed bin Zayed and his Egyptian counterpart, El Sisi inspected a squadron of Egypt's Rafale fighter jets on Friday. The jets are tasked with operating within the U.A.E.'s border for defensive operations such as drone and missile hunting.

This follows the good showing by French Rafale jets against Iranian drones when that were stationed in Qatar during the March Iran response to U.S. and Israeli aggression.

Egyptian President Sisi was quoted as saying by the Emirates’ WAM news agency, "What affects the Emirates affects Egypt.. We support the security and stability of the Emirates and reject Iranian aggression."

However, Egypt had largely remained “neutral” during earlier hostilities and refusing to intercept Iranian missiles cruising towards Israel. However, this change of heart in favour of the U.A.E. appears coming from the economic lifeline extended to Cairo by Abu Dhabi.

The Emirates are the largest investor in Egypt, with investments totaling $35–$40 billion. However it remains to be seen how far Cairo will go to protect the Emirates considering its largely good relations with Iran.

Besides, Sisi may not want to be seen as supporting Israel by attacking Iran as Egypt’s population largely supports Iran and the Palestinian cause.