Donald Trump has pledged a “fair” deal in a new mediation offer for the Nile dam. The former President has officially written to Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, offering to step in and resolve the contentious dispute between Egypt and Ethiopia over the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD).
In his letter, Trump outlined a vision for a “lasting agreement.” He believes that with “fair and transparent negotiations” and a strong U.S. presence, the two nations can find a middle ground. The proposal aims to balance Ethiopia’s drive for energy with Egypt’s need for water security.
The core of Trump’s plan is a trade-off: Ethiopia generates “substantial amounts of electricity,” while Egypt receives guarantees for “predictable water releases.” Trump argues that this dual approach, monitored by the United States, is the only way to satisfy both parties.
The conflict has been a persistent source of tension in the region. The dam, which is now operational, has fundamentally altered the Nile’s flow. Egypt views it as an existential threat, while Ethiopia sees it as a sovereign right. Previous diplomatic efforts have failed to produce a binding treaty.
Trump’s return to the issue highlights his continued interest in the region. He has previously claimed to have “ended” the dispute, despite the ongoing lack of a resolution. His recent comments describing the dam as a “big problem” suggest he is eager to prove his diplomatic credentials once again.