Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has clarified that any military support Egypt offers to Saudi Arabia will be strictly defensive in nature, ruling out participation in offensive operations, particularly against Yemen. This declaration underscores Egypt’s commitment to safeguarding Saudi territory and other Arab states if needed, focusing on the protection of national security and regional stability.
The announcement coincides with Egypt’s consideration of a proposal that would authorize the president to approve defensive military aid to Saudi Arabia. The Egyptian parliament is set to deliberate on this measure on October 26. According to Egypt’s constitutional framework, deploying armed forces abroad requires consultation with the National Defense Council and a two-thirds parliamentary majority.
President El-Sisi emphasized the importance of Arab security, particularly that of the Gulf states, as being closely tied to Egypt’s national interests. He reiterated Egypt’s stance on noninterference in the internal affairs of other countries, the defense of national institutions, and opposition to armed militias.
This development comes amid increasing concerns about regional security, highlighted by recent Houthi missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. The escalating tensions have also raised alarms regarding maritime safety in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial passage for global shipping.
In a related statement, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty noted that Egypt is actively working with Red Sea nations to bolster regional security through economic development, logistical coordination, and strengthened partnerships. Egypt’s position appears to balance support for Saudi Arabia’s security needs while avoiding direct involvement in offensive military actions in Yemen.
