It has been the Ikhwan’s modus practically from the day of its founding to infiltrate the “professions.” Such has occurred in the legal profession, at the universities and in the lesser schools. Add to that a certain number of mosques and you have a dangerous mix. However, practically from its inception the Brotherhood has attacked the military. During the war for Israel’s independence the Ikhwan sent its own units to fight the Jews. With the departure of King Faruk it used General Naguib, who was favorably disposed, but that honeymoon lasted a short time. Sadat was a Brother when a junior officer, and he too was favorably disposed to the Ikhwan. Of course, his assassination changed all that. What I am saying here is that as long as the miitary is in power, and as long as it has not been infiltrated by the Brothers, the Ikhwan will not take over.
There are certain aspects of the present situation that have not been covered well. In the Sinai it seems that the beduin tribes of the north have basically taken charge of the region’s major city El Arish. I have heard that the US-financed Multi-National Force and Observers (MFO) has been ordered to quarters and may even be awaiting evacuation. I can hardly believe it, because this would throw the Sinai to the terrorists and create many more problems for Israel. How the military handles this situation should tell us a lot about the control they have over the country. I could go on. Simply put. Prior to Mubarak’s departure Egypt was a military dictatorship. After his departure it is a military dictatorship. How long and if that situation lasts is the $1,5 billion dollar question.
Thank you so much for your informative post and for taking the time to explain to my western mind that knows ..how much I don’t know!
Wow- JUST this minute a caller on Mark Levin saying don’t look for the MB in turbans and robes and beards...look for them in suits and ties. His family lives in Egypt- he said the media coverage was appalling and NOT realistic...he sounded just like you.