An aging dictator with a three-decade history of oppressive rule faces waves of angry citizens calling for change.

Given America’s superpower and freedom-founded status, this nation’s response might seem simple: Make change happen — and make sure the result leads with free and fair elections.

If only things were that simple when it comes to Egypt. They are not.

For starters, the political and diplomatic realities of the Middle East have necessitated America be an ally of Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak, who appears to be on the final days of ruling this Arab nation of about 83 million.

Speaking strictly from an international perspective, Mubarak’s willingness to cooperate in the global war on terrorism, to be a positive force in relations with Israel, and even to stop Islamic extremists in his own country all have helped America’s long-term objectives in that region the past several decades.

In 2009, President Obama made a speech in Cairo that called for increased political freedom in Muslim nations.

Now those words face a huge test as Egyptians from all walks of life call for Mubarak to step down.

America must navigate a delicate diplomatic path. It must avoid direct involvement in the fate of Mubarak while championing an Egyptian government built on free and fair elections.

And, oh yes, do this amid some clear anti-American sentiments that are supplanted with strong bids for power from Islamic extremists — remembering, of course, that to lose Egypt as an ally in the Mideast would be a change unlike anything seen there in decades.

—The St. Cloud Times