Sisi Considers Military Courts for Price Gougers as Egypt Navigates Regional Tensions
CAIRO, Egypt (AP) — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has instructed officials to explore the possibility of trying individuals accused of manipulating commodity prices in military courts, a move signaling heightened concern over economic stability amid escalating regional conflicts. Sisi described the current economic climate as a “state of near-emergency” during an Iftar event hosted by the Egyptian Military Academy on Friday.
The president warned against exploiting the volatile global and regional situation to artificially inflate prices and profit from public necessity. While assuring citizens that Egypt is “fine,” Sisi urged continued responsibility and informed understanding.
The move comes as fears of a wider Middle East conflict grow, following recent exchanges between Iran, Israel, and the United States. Sisi reiterated Egypt’s commitment to preventing further escalation, emphasizing that war brings only “ruin, destruction, and damage to the interests and capabilities of peoples.” He confirmed ongoing “sincere and honest” mediation efforts to halt the conflict, warning of a “heavy price” should it continue. He characterized the current situation as stemming from “errors in calculations and estimates.”
Beyond the immediate regional crisis, Sisi highlighted the importance of human development within Egypt, particularly through the nation’s military academies. He noted the Egyptian Military Academy currently hosts around 8,000 students, functioning as a unique educational institution alongside traditional schooling. The president stated the state is collaborating with sociologists and psychologists to develop a roadmap for effective human preparation, emphasizing a merit-based selection process free from “favouritism or discrimination.”
The academy is also playing a role in teacher training, with a focus on “strong foundations and respect for all students,” according to Sisi, contributing to the establishment of a “modern state built quietly.”
The Iftar event was attended by Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, Minister of Defence General Ashraf Salem Zaher, and Chief of Staff of the Armed Forces Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, among other senior officials. Sisi concluded the visit by participating in Isha and Taraweeh prayers at the academy’s mosque.
This latest development underscores the Egyptian government’s sensitivity to economic pressures and its determination to maintain stability in a turbulent region. The potential use of military courts for economic crimes represents a significant escalation in measures to address price gouging, a practice that could disproportionately impact vulnerable populations.
