Why did Egypt and Syria form the United Arab Republic in 1958?

The formation of the United Arab Republic in 1958 was driven primarily by political instability in Syria and the influence of Pan-Arabism.12

During the 1950s, Syria experienced significant political turmoil and faced increasing pressure from Cold War powers. In response, the Syrian Ba'th Party—a strong proponent of Arab unity—sought a political union with Egyptian President Gamal Abdel Nasser.12

Nasser, who had emerged as a charismatic leader of the Arab world following the Suez Crisis, initially expressed reluctance because he was unprepared to manage Syria's complex domestic issues. However, he was eventually persuaded to move forward with the union. Nasser viewed the republic as a potential foundation for a broader unification of the Arab world, aligning with his long-term aspirations for regional leadership. The union was officially proclaimed on February 1, 1958, though it ultimately dissolved in 1961 due to internal dissatisfaction with Egyptian administrative and economic policies.13