US to Redirect Security Assistance Funds from Egypt to Taiwan amidst rows

The Biden administration announced this week its intention to withhold $85 million allocated for U.S. security assistance to Egypt this year, opting instead to allocate the majority of these funds to bolster Taiwan’s defense capabilities. The decision has sparked immediate criticism from lawmakers who argue that the reallocated amount is either insufficient to hold Egypt accountable for its ongoing human rights violations or insufficient to address the urgent challenges posed by China’s assertive behavior.

This decision marks the second instance in recent weeks in which the Biden administration has redirected funds intended for sovereign nations to support Taiwan under the Foreign Military Financing (FMF) program.
In late August, the State Department notified Congress of its plans to provide $80 million in the form of military aid to Taiwan, rather than through sales of military equipment. This move drew swift condemnation from China, which asserted that it violated the United States’ recognition of the “One China” policy and China’s claimed sovereignty over Taiwan.
Senator Roger Wicker of Mississippi, the top-ranking Republican on the Senate Armed Services Committee, expressed his concerns regarding the reallocated funds in a statement. He characterized the redirected funds as “a pittance” in comparison to Taiwan’s pressing need for self-defense against the looming threat posed by China.
Of the total sum, $55 million is slated to be redirected from Egypt to “strengthen Taiwan’s defense capabilities.” Critics argue that this amount may not be sufficient to address Taiwan’s security needs adequately.
The remaining $30 million from the FMF budget is designated for Lebanon, according to a notification sent to Congress on Monday. News of the reallocation of funds to Taiwan and Lebanon was initially reported by the Wall Street Journal.
Senator Wicker also criticized the administration for choosing to divert funds from Egypt, a long-standing security partner. He suggested that this move could be counterproductive, especially considering Egypt’s willingness to engage with the Biden administration on human rights concerns.
The decision to reallocate these funds reflects the Biden administration’s commitment to adapting its foreign policy in response to evolving international challenges and priorities, particularly in the context of China’s rising influence and human rights concerns.