Sinai Conflict Analysis

Abstract

The Sinai conflict has been underway since 2011 and has become progressively more intense and violent, fuelled by localised grievances as well as wider regional developments (Hart, 2016). The key actors involved are militant jihadist groups, local Bedouin tribes and the Egyptian government/military; others such as Israel, Gaza and the Multinational Forces and Observers (MFO) have varying influence on the conflict. This report looks at these actors, the underlying and proximate causes of the conflict and opportunities for peace. The literature reviewed largely comprised newspaper, magazine and think-tank articles rather than academic journals. More research is needed on militant groups involved in the conflict and on their relationship with Bedouin tribes.