" In Egypt, on the eve of Tahrir Square, there was a major poll which found that overwhelmingly – 80-90%, numbers like that – Egyptians regarded the main threats they face as the U.S. and Israel. They don’t like Iran – Arabs generally don’t like Iran – but they didn’t consider it a threat. "
- Noam Chomsky

In Egypt before the Tahrir Square protests, a significant survey revealed that an overwhelming majority—between 80% and 90%—of Egyptians perceived the United States and Israel as the primary threats to their country. Interestingly, while Egyptians generally did not hold a favorable view of Iran, they did not consider it a threat in comparison to the U.S. and Israel.

This quote delves into the complex dynamics of Middle Eastern politics and public perception. It highlights how geopolitical relationships can shape the opinions and fears of ordinary citizens. The stark contrast between perceiving the United States and Israel as threats while viewing Iran with distrust but not fear suggests a nuanced understanding of regional and international relations among Egyptians at that time. This perspective underscores the intricate nature of diplomatic ties, historical grievances, and contemporary issues in Egypt's political landscape.

Noam Chomsky, the author of this quote, is a renowned American linguist, philosopher, cognitive scientist, historian, social critic, and political activist. His work spans a wide range of disciplines, but he is most well-known for his critiques of U.S. foreign policy and mainstream media. Chomsky’s insights are often grounded in extensive research and analysis, making him a significant voice on global politics and international relations.