Egypt has clarified its stance on potential military support to Saudi Arabia, emphasizing that any assistance would be strictly defensive. President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi stated that Cairo is prepared to help protect Saudi territory and other Arab states if requested, but this support would not extend to offensive operations, such as those against Yemen.
The proposal to authorize Egypt’s president to approve defensive military assistance to Saudi Arabia is currently under consideration, with parliamentary deliberations postponed until October 26. According to Egypt’s constitutional framework, deploying armed forces abroad requires consultation with the National Defense Council and a two-thirds majority approval in parliament.
El-Sisi underscored the interconnectedness of Egypt’s national interests with the security of Arab countries, particularly the Gulf states. He highlighted Egypt’s commitment to noninterference in the internal affairs of other nations and the importance of protecting national institutions while opposing armed militias.
Concerns about regional security have intensified following an increase in Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi Arabia. These tensions have also raised alarms about the safety of maritime routes in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, which are crucial for international shipping.
In a related development, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty mentioned that Cairo is collaborating with Red Sea countries to bolster regional security through economic development, logistical coordination, and closer partnerships. This reflects Egypt’s strategy to support Saudi Arabia’s security while avoiding direct involvement in Yemen’s conflict.