Anti-Christian and anti-Semitic sentiment and persecution has been increasing in Egypt over the past several years. So has confusion and inconsistency of US policy toward Egypt. And, oh yes, Egpyt is the original home of the Muslim Brotherhood, the parent of most Islamic terrorist organizations in the world today. Refer to definition of "Muslim Brotherhood" here.
There is little doubt that the Muslim Brotherhood will gain significant influence in the direction of Egypt through 2011, especially given the pressure brought to bear by Obama as long as he remains our President. The consequences of this outcome to US interests are dire. The consequences to Israeli interests and middle east peace are worse.
Several unanswered questions include:
1. Was the US caught totally flat-footed by the Egyptian uprising or did we help instigate it?
2. Did the Muslim Brotherhood help instigate it or were they merely opportunists as the protests continued?
3. Here is the $64,000 question: Is a Mubarak dictatorship better or worse than a major role of the Islamic brotherhood in the Egyptian government? Why? Hint: Consider which scenario is most likely to maintain middle east peace. The problem is that the US had to expend billions to prop up the lesser of these two evils. Refer to a discussion of this dillemma here.
4. 80 to 90% of the Egyptian population is Muslim. What is the degree to which the Egyptian population is indoctrinated in orthodox militant, supremacist Islam, especially the younger, university trained population? Hint: There has been an increase in the number of bombings of Christian churches and increase in religious persecution in Egypt. The Muslim Brotherhood has a considerable role in this violent intolerance.
5. Do you agree that democracy in Egypt can be sustained, or is it only an expedient means of voting in (legitimizing) Islamic law in Egypt? Why do you believe that? Hint: Islamic leaders have stated that democracy is like a bus. You get on to get where you want to go and get off. Sharia law is where the powers that be want to get off.
6. What are the consequences to US interests, especially the Suez Canal and Israel? Hint: Invest in oil futures, pray for Israel and work feverishly for a new US President.
7. As the uprising progressed, why do you think the media, including FOX commentators, referred to Egypt as “our best ally in the Middle East”, as if Israel does not exist? Hint: Refer to "Stockholm Syndrome."
8. How much do you trust Obama to do the right thing regarding Egypt? Why? Hint: Refer to Obamas family, upbringing, religious influence, associations, and advisors.
9. What should our role with Egypt be given current events?
Read more about the Muslim Brotherhood's expected increase in influence in Egypt here.