The Anglo-Egyptian Treaty of 1936 was a pivotal agreement between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Egypt, signed on August 26, 1936. This treaty was a response to the growing nationalist sentiments in Egypt, which had been under British influence since the Anglo-Egyptian Convention of 1899.
Historical Context
Key Provisions of the Treaty
- End of British Occupation: The treaty formally ended the British military occupation of Egypt, although it allowed for the continued presence of British troops in the Suez Canal Zone.
- Military Presence: Britain was permitted to maintain up to 10,000 troops in the Suez Canal Zone and could increase this number in times of global tension or if Egypt was threatened by an outside power.
- Defense Alliance: Egypt and Britain agreed to mutual defense in case of war, aligning Egypt closely with British strategic interests during the interwar period.
- Control Over Sudan: The treaty maintained the status quo regarding the governance of Sudan, which was to be decided later through negotiations between Egypt and Britain.
Impact and Reactions
- Egyptian Reaction: The treaty was met with mixed reactions in Egypt. While it was seen as a step towards full independence, the continued British military presence was a source of contention. The Wafd Party was criticized for not securing full sovereignty.
- International Context: The treaty was signed amidst global tensions leading up to World War II, which influenced its military stipulations.
Subsequent Developments
- World War II: During the war, Egypt was an important ally to the Allies, and the treaty's provisions were utilized.
- Post-War Nationalism: Post-war, the push for complete independence intensified, leading to the 1952 Egyptian Revolution and the eventual abrogation of the treaty in 1951 by the Egyptian government.
References
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