ÉGYPTE PERSPECTIVE

Egypt covers day 26 with the caution of a country caught between its US alliance and its position as Arab world leader. Al-Ahram, the establishment paper, reports developments factually, avoiding direct criticism of Washington or Tel Aviv. The tone is security-focused: Suez Canal stability and Sinai Peninsula security are priorities.

Al-Masry Al-Youm, more independent, covers anti-war protests in Egyptian universities with caution, recalling the Sisi regime bans unauthorized gatherings. Al-Shorouk analyzes Suez Canal revenue implications: maritime traffic diversion from the Strait of Hormuz could paradoxically increase Suez traffic, but regional security risks deter shipowners.

Egypt's positioning is delicate: Cairo receives $1.3 billion in annual US military aid and cannot afford to criticize Washington. But the Arab street is furious, and Sisi must calibrate his response between diplomatic imperatives and popular pressure.

The 'Oum al-Dounia' (mother of the world) dimension is invoked: Egypt, as the largest Arab country and host of the Arab League, should play a leading diplomatic role. But means don't match ambition.