In a statement, Al-Sisi said he appreciated Trump’s efforts to promote peace and stability at the regional and international levels, as well as his recognition of Egypt’s pivotal role in supporting regional security. In his letter, dated January 16 and addressed to Al-Sisi, Trump said he was ready to resume US mediation between Egypt and Ethiopia to “responsibly resolve” the dispute over Nile water sharing. According to the letter, Trump said any agreement should guarantee predictable water releases during droughts and prolonged dry periods for Egypt and Sudan, while allowing Ethiopia to generate substantial electricity from the dam. Egypt, home to around 108 million people, depends on the Nile for approximately 90% of its freshwater needs. Ethiopia, meanwhile, maintains that the GERD is a sovereign right and a regional development opportunity, and has continued filling the dam’s reservoir since 2020.

Source: Daily News Egypt January 17, 2026 16:04 UTC