What’s ahead for Egypt.

“Money talks” is an old saying. For years, the United States has influenced Egyptian politics with a billion-dollar military aid package. But with the recent military overthrow of Mohammed Morsi and subsequent bloodbath, the U.S. has threatened to cut off aid to Egypt.

The European Union is also considering cutting off aid to Egypt (EU Observer, August 16, 2013). However, last week the Saudi Arabian Foreign Minister commented, “To those who have announced they are cutting their aid to Egypt, or threatening to do that, (we say that) Arab and Muslim nations are rich... and will not hesitate to help Egypt” (Al Arabiya, August 19, 2013). Along with Saudi money will come political and military support and influence!

The Bible has long-prophesied the rise of a King of the South—probably a confederation of Arab nations directed by one nation or one individual in particular (see Daniel 11:40). Saudi Arabia is one of the richest and most stable Middle Eastern nations and possesses a modern military. It is also a fellow Muslim nation. It will be interesting to see what impact Saudi promises have on Egypt’s future.

To better understand the reasons for chaos in the Middle East, read our insightful article “Conflict Over the ‘City of Peace.’”