New Water Tensions: UAE Support for Egypt After Ethiopian Threats to Control the Nile

Amid escalating tensions over the Nile River, Dr. Abdul Khaleq Abdullah, a UAE political science professor, expressed full solidarity with Egypt. He emphasized that Cairo's right to every drop of the river's water is legitimate and non-negotiable, warning against unilateral domination attempts.

Controversial Ethiopian Statements and Sharp Egyptian Reactions

Statements by Ethiopian Minister of Water and Energy Hebto Getachew regarding plans to build new dams to control water flows sparked wide concern. Cairo firmly rejected these proposals, asserting it will not accept any attempt to dominate an international river, deeming it a blatant violation of international law and principles of good neighborliness.

Historical and Legal Background of the Dispute

The root of the conflict lies in Addis Ababa's pursuit of unilateral exploitation of its water resources, viewed by experts like Mohamed Nasr-El-Din Allam as an existential threat to Egypt and Sudan. Cairo stresses that international law mandates consultation and cooperation among basin countries, preventing any harm to shared interests, rendering Ethiopian illusions unachievable.

Arab and international stances continue to support Egypt's rights to Nile waters, acknowledging the diverse tools Cairo possesses to defend its interests. Experts affirm that any attempt at unilateral control of water flows will face major legal and political obstacles hindering their realization.