The Obama administration said Tuesday it has certified that Egypt is upholding its 35-year-old peace treaty with Israel and therefore qualifies for some military and counterterrorism assistance.
"Today, Secretary Kerry spoke with Egyptian Foreign Minister (Nibil) Fahmy to inform him that he is certifying to Congress that Egypt is sustaining the strategic relationship with the United States, including by countering transnational threats such as terrorism and weapons proliferation, and that Egypt is upholding its obligations under the Egypt-Israel Peace Treaty," department spokeswoman Jen Psaki said in a emailed statement.
The decision clears the way for the release of Apache helicopters to Egypt, which the United States has held up since July when the Egyptian military overthrew President Mohammed Morsi and his Muslim Brotherhood-led government.
Defense Secretary Chuck Hagel informed Egypt's defense minister, Col. Gen. Sedki Sobhi, of President Barack Obama's decision to deliver the Apaches in support of Egypt's counterterrorism operations in the Sinai, the Pentagon said.
"The secretary noted that we believe these new helicopters will help the Egyptian government counter extremists who threaten U.S., Egyptian and Israeli security," Pentagon spokesman Rear Adm. John Kirby said in outlining Hagel's call to his Egyptian counterpart. "This is one element of the president's broader efforts to work with partners across the region to build their capacity to counter terrorist threats, and is the United States' national security interest."
The administration's decision means aid is now flowing to the Egyptian military.
Sending a full certification to Congress for the resumption of Egypt aid would signal U.S. approval for Egypt's path toward a return to democracy.
Once Kerry issues that certification, the U.S. can resume other military and civilian assistance programs.
The notification deals specifically with Egypt's adherence to the Camp David Accords and not its progression toward democratic rule.
Psaki said Kerry "noted that he is not yet able to certify that Egypt is taking steps to support a democratic transition. He urged Egypt to follow through on its commitment to transition to democracy, including by conducting free, fair and transparent elections, and easing restrictions on freedom of expression, assembly and the media."
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