In the Guns for Hire podcast, host Alia Brahimi and BBC journalist Nawal Al-Maghafi discuss American mercenaries in Yemen, contracted by the UAE to conduct targeted assassinations. The Delaware-registered private military company has trained Yemeni units to kill activists, teachers, and cultural figures, instilling terror in southern Yemen. The podcast, produced by the Atlantic Council’s North Africa Initiative, explores the normalization of contract warfare and its implications for the future of international conflict.

The article discusses the arrest of an individual in Egypt who is accused of being a serial rapist and sexual harasser. This event has sparked a renewed public discourse on the issues of sexual harassment and abuse in the country. The catalyst for the arrest and the conversation was the sharing of personal stories by many women on social media, which brought attention to the accused's actions and the broader issue of women's safety and rights in Egypt.

The Giza Zoo in Cairo is highlighted as an affordable leisure destination for families and couples, especially appealing to the poor and middle-class Egyptians. The zoo, which spans 80 acres and is surrounded by the city's hustle and bustle, offers a green retreat with its lush gardens, palms, and eucalyptus trees. With free entry for children and a nominal fee for adults, the Giza Zoo stands out as one of the few budget-friendly attractions in the area.

Egypt has increased security along its northern border with Gaza in response to Israel's planned ground offensive in Rafah. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi faces a dilemma: allowing Palestinian refugees into Egypt could lead to accusations of complicity in their displacement, while refusing entry could result in civilian casualties. Egypt has already allowed some wounded Palestinians to enter for medical treatment but remains firm against a mass influx. The situation has strained Egypt-Israel relations, with Egypt warning that mass displacement could jeopardize the Camp David Accords. Tensions are also high between Egypt and the US over border crossing allegations. The article underscores the difficult position of the Egyptian leadership amid rising internal and external pressures.

In the tenth episode of the Guns for Hire podcast, host Alia Brahimi and guest Renad Mansour discuss the complex dynamics of the Middle East, focusing on the war in Gaza and the involvement of non-state actors like the Wagner Group and Iran-backed Shi’a militias. They explore the Wagner Group's alleged transfer of Russian air defense systems to Hezbollah and the broader Russia-Iran rivalry in the region. The episode also draws parallels between the current conflict and the 2003 Iraq war, highlighting the role of economic interests in the actions of Shi’a armed groups. The Guns for Hire podcast is produced by the Atlantic Council’s North Africa Initiative and delves into the use of mercenaries in armed conflict, featuring diverse perspectives on the subject.

The article discusses Egypt's intensified efforts to mediate a permanent ceasefire between Israel and Palestinian factions in Gaza amidst an ongoing conflict that has impacted Egypt's economy through decreased tourism and Suez Canal revenues. The assassination of Hamas' Deputy Leader Saleh Al-Arouri has added pressure on Egypt, which is already dealing with an economic crisis. The Egyptian plan for a ceasefire includes a temporary truce, hostage releases, and humanitarian aid, but has faced challenges, including Hamas' demands and the recent assassination derailing talks. The article also touches on the potential for Qatar to mediate due to its influence with Hamas and the extension of the US military presence at Qatar's Al Udeid Air Base. The journalist, Shahira Amin, provides insights into the situation, including the Egyptian public's support for Palestinians and President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi's balancing act between domestic and international narratives.

The European Union announced an $8.1-billion aid package for Egypt to curb illegal migration and support its struggling economy, following an $8 billion loan agreement with the IMF and a $35 billion investment deal with the Abu Dhabi Developmental Holding Company. Despite these financial lifelines, experts warn that without significant policy changes, including reducing the military's economic role and adopting a flexible exchange rate, Egypt's economic crisis may worsen. The article also highlights the need for improved human rights to secure continued international support. Critics argue that President Sisi's current policies, including expensive subsidies and mega-projects, are unsustainable and risk deepening the economic downturn.

The article discusses the upcoming Egyptian presidential election, which is expected to secure a third term for incumbent President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi. Despite attempts to present a democratic facade, skepticism remains due to the lack of serious competition and allegations of harassment against opposition candidates. The election is overshadowed by the war in Gaza, affecting Egyptian public opinion and Sisi's popularity. The article also touches on the economic crisis in Egypt, the role of various political parties and candidates, and the international support Egypt is receiving amidst the conflict with Gaza. The journalist, Shahira Amin, provides insights into the political climate and the challenges facing Sisi's potential third term, including the need to address the economic hardships faced by Egyptians.

The article discusses Egypt's response to the ongoing conflict between Israel and Hamas in the Gaza Strip. Egypt, facing both external pressure from the United States and Israel and internal pressure from its citizens, has refused to open its border with Gaza for the mass evacuation of Palestinians, citing national security concerns and the potential for Hamas militants to infiltrate Sinai. The Egyptian government, led by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, has instead called for a ceasefire and negotiations. The article also touches on the economic and security challenges Egypt faces, the public's reaction to the government's stance, and the potential political implications for Sisi with upcoming presidential elections. Additionally, it critiques the US's role and policy in the region, suggesting a need for a shift to address the Arab masses' growing resentment towards the United States.

The article discusses Egypt's concerns over the ongoing Israeli bombardment of the Gaza Strip and the potential for a humanitarian crisis on its border. Egypt fears a mass exodus of Gazans into the Sinai Peninsula and has taken steps to prevent this, including urging Israel to allow safe passage for civilians and deploying troops to monitor the border. Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has called for restraint and the protection of civilians. Israel has threatened to attack any aid trucks to Gaza and aims to eliminate Hamas. The IDF's suggestion for Gazans to flee to Egypt was seen as an attempt to forcibly displace them, which was later retracted. Israel's ambassador to Egypt reaffirmed the peace treaty and Sinai's sovereignty. Egypt is engaged in diplomatic efforts to de-escalate the situation and has been a mediator in the conflict. The US is involved in trying to establish a humanitarian corridor and evacuate US citizens from Gaza, with Secretary of State Antony Blinken coordinating with Egypt.