Trump once referred to Sisi as “his favorite dictator.” It’s doubtful that Sisi appreciated what was clearly meant to be a compliment, but for once, Trump was actually telling the truth.
Trump undoubtedly appreciates Sisi because he views him as a fellow strongman who can keep the lid on. The reality is rather different. Sisi’s only real success, if you can call it that, has been in crushing the forces of liberal democracy that were largely responsible for putting him in office. He hasn’t put an end to Islamic terrorism, the Egyptian economy isn’t in very good shape, and climate change and an Ethiopian dam on the Nile loom as very serious problems. In response, he’s building an enormous new capital at vast expense. It’s hard to see how this ends well.
The revolution is coming to Egypt; it’s just a matter of time. Since liberalism failed last time, it undoubtedly will be led by violent extremists who have learned that it is far too dangerous to leave the state apparatus in place. If Trump is still in power, how will he react? Will he acquiesce on the basis that the Middle East is not our problem, or will he attempt to thwart the popular will and use force to keep his chum in power? We’ll see; he’s capable of either approach.