Strategic timber needs drove Mehmed Ali’s ambition to annex Syria

Evidence

This desperate need for wood was necessitated by the need to build a formidable fleet and, to a lesser extent, to provide the “factories” with a reliable supply of fuel. Given its large wooded areas, Syria was an attractive region, especially in light of its proximity to Egypt which reduced transportation costs. Furthermore, because it had extensive forest lands Syria was producing different kinds of wood that were suitable for the Pasha’s various needs. — Khaled Fahmy, All the Pasha_s Men_ Mehmed Ali, his…, 214