Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has affirmed that any military support provided by Egypt to Saudi Arabia would strictly be for defensive purposes. This declaration underscores Egypt’s commitment to regional stability and its intention to avoid involvement in offensive operations, particularly in Yemen.
El-Sisi emphasized that Egypt would be willing to assist in protecting Saudi territory and other Arab states if such a request is made, prioritizing national security and stability in the region. This statement comes as Egypt considers a legislative proposal that would enable the president to approve defensive military assistance to Saudi Arabia. The Egyptian parliament is set to discuss this measure on October 26, following a delay in deliberations.
Under the Egyptian constitution, any deployment of armed forces for combat missions abroad requires consultation with the National Defense Council and approval by a two-thirds parliamentary majority. El-Sisi reiterated the interconnectedness of Arab nations’ security, especially the Gulf states, with Egypt’s own national interests, while also advocating for noninterference in the internal affairs of other countries, the protection of national institutions, and opposition to armed militias.
The backdrop to this development includes a series of escalated Houthi missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia, raising concerns over regional security. There is also heightened anxiety around maritime safety in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial international shipping passage.
Additionally, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty highlighted that Cairo is working with Red Sea nations to bolster regional security through economic development, coordinated logistics, and strengthened partnerships. Egypt’s current stance reflects its effort to support Saudi Arabia’s security needs while steering clear of direct involvement in Yemen’s offensive military actions.