Did Egypt fight in WW1? This question often arises when discussing the involvement of Egypt in the global conflict that reshaped the world order. The answer is both complex and multifaceted, as Egypt’s role in World War I was influenced by various political, social, and economic factors.
The Ottoman Empire, which controlled Egypt at the time, was an ally of the Central Powers during World War I. However, the Egyptian people, particularly the Egyptians living under British occupation, were not aligned with the Ottoman Empire. The British, who had gained control of Egypt after the Anglo-Egyptian treaty of 1914, were initially concerned about the potential threat of Ottoman rule and sought to maintain their grip on the region.
In 1914, the British declared Egypt a protectorate, effectively taking control of the country. This move was seen as a prelude to a full-blown invasion, which led to widespread unrest among the Egyptian population. The British government, however, was also aware of the potential for rebellion and sought to maintain a semblance of local control.
As the war progressed, the British government decided to utilize Egypt as a base for operations against the Ottoman Empire. This decision was partly driven by the need for resources and military support. Egypt’s strategic location in the Middle East made it an ideal staging ground for operations in the region.
In 1915, the British formed the Egyptian Expeditionary Force (EEF) to participate in the war. The EEF was primarily composed of British and Indian soldiers, with a smaller number of Egyptians. The EEF played a significant role in the Gallipoli Campaign, the Suez Canal offensive, and the Sinai and Palestine Campaigns.
While the Egyptians in the EEF were not fighting for the same cause as their British and Indian counterparts, they were nonetheless part of the same military alliance. The EEF’s involvement in the war was a testament to the complex relationship between Egypt and the British during this period.
In conclusion, while Egypt did not fight as an independent nation in World War I, the Egyptian Expeditionary Force played a crucial role in the British war effort. The war’s impact on Egypt was profound, as it set the stage for the country’s eventual independence from British rule. The question of whether Egypt fought in WW1, therefore, is not as straightforward as it may seem, as the answer lies in the complex interplay of colonialism, occupation, and military alliances during the war.
