U.S. Senator threatens to block military aid to Egypt over human rights concerns

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin threatened to block military aid and arms sales to Egypt if human rights improvements are not made.
Cardin's threat came after U.S. Representative Gregory Meeks asked to pause some military aid to Egypt due to rights issues.
Cardin demanded progress on releasing prisoners, allowing civil society groups, opposition, and media.
The U.S. has provided significant aid to Egypt but has withheld some over rights concerns.
The Biden administration recently waived restrictions on a portion of the aid to Egypt.