Shielded by deserts at each side, powered by the mighty Nile, and in command of the Suez crossing, the Arab Republic of Egypt is bestowed with distinct advantages. Thanks to its large population, institutions, and military, Cairo sits at the heart of the Arab world. Soft power, therefore, comes naturally to Egypt. However, the country also has its fair share of troubles. The economy is failing, youth unemployment is sky-high, resources are stretched thinly, and the ruling oligarchy is unable to carry out reforms. Yes, Egypt has seen better days, but many of its socio-economic issues are hardwired into its geography. To understand the why and how we must delve into the geopolitics of Egypt.