Apparently, it’s Egypt’s turn to be in the middle of ever-shifting Middle East alliances. The recent decision of Saudi Arabia's national oil company, Saudi Aramco, to cut off petroleum supplies to Egypt is, many analysts say, tied to recent political tension between the countries. This tension originated in October with Egypt’s vote, over Saudi objections, to side with Russia on a UN Security Council draft resolution on Syria. Russia backs the regime of Syrian President Bashar al-Assad, whereas Saudi Arabia backs rebel forces.

Saudi Aramco’s decision came as the countries of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) witnessed a certain improvement in relations with Turkey.

Though Turkey wants Assad out of Syria, it is subject to Russia’s influence and has become less outspoken on the subject. Indeed, the GCC and Turkey held joint meetings Oct. 13 concerning Syria. It seemed that the closer Saudi Arabia got to Turkey, the farther away the Saudis drifted from Egypt. This perception was reinforced when Saudi Arabia pre-empted the summit by having Aramco sign 18 memoranda of investment and understanding with Turkish companies after cutting off Egypt’s supply of oil.

However, the United Arab Emirates was able to smooth things over to an extent between the GCC and Egypt by agreeing Nov. 7 to export petroleum to Egypt.