CAIRO – 30 August 2025: Egypt and the United States launched the joint military exercise Bright Star 2025 on Saturday, with the participation of 44 countries, including 14 sending combat forces and 30 attending as observers.
According to statement by the spokesperson of the Egyptian Armed Forces, Colonel Gharib Abdel Hafez, the drills, held at Mohamed Naguib Military Base as well as several air and naval bases across Egypt, will continue until September 10. More than 8,000 troops are taking part, alongside representatives from NATO, the International Committee of the Red Cross, and civilian police forces.
During the opening ceremony, Major General Sherif Al-Araishi, head of the Armed Forces Training Authority, conveyed greetings from General Abdel-Meguid Saqr, Minister of Defense and Armed Forces Commander-in-Chief, and Lieutenant General Ahmed Khalifa, Chief of Staff.
Al-Arayshi stressed that Bright Star remains one of the largest multinational exercises in the region, strengthening military ties and enhancing cooperation among participating states.
From the U.S. side, Brigadier General Patrick Clare praised Egypt’s organization and preparation for the drills, describing the exercise as a valuable platform for exchanging expertise and building cross-cultural military understanding.
Following the speeches, military leaders toured a weapons and equipment exhibition, while armed forces bands performed musical displays.
On the sidelines, Egyptian and American paratroopers carried out a demonstration jump over the Pyramids archaeological area, attended by senior commanders and the U.S. Ambassador to Egypt.
Several participants expressed appreciation for Egypt’s hospitality and reception, emphasizing the importance of the exercise in fostering military cooperation and knowledge exchange.
Sat, Aug. 30, 2025
