CAIRO — Egypt's president says the United States' release of military aid previously suspended will help boost Cairo's ability to combat extremists in the region. Abdel-Fattah El-Sissi said in a statement Wednesday that the decision supports the strategic objectives of both countries in combating terrorism and extremism and maintaining security, particularly in Egypt's restive Sinai Peninsula. The White House said President Barack Obama notified El-Sissi in a phone call Tuesday that the US would be sending 12 F-16 fighter jets, 20 missiles and up to 125 tank kits, while continuing to request $1.3 billion in military assistance for Egypt. — AP
