Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has announced that any military support Cairo provides to Saudi Arabia will be strictly defensive, explicitly excluding involvement in offensive operations against Yemen. El-Sisi emphasized that Egypt’s assistance would be aimed at safeguarding Saudi territory and ensuring regional stability if requested.
The statement comes as Egypt evaluates a proposal allowing the president to authorize defensive military aid to Saudi Arabia. Deliberations in the Egyptian parliament on this measure have been postponed until October 26. According to Egypt’s constitutional framework, engaging armed forces in foreign combat missions requires consultation with the National Defense Council and a two-thirds parliamentary majority.
El-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s view that the security of Arab nations, particularly the Gulf states, is intricately linked to Egypt’s own national interests. He stressed the importance of noninterference in other countries’ internal affairs, the protection of national institutions, and opposition to armed militias.
This development arises amid heightened regional security concerns, particularly due to increased Houthi missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. The tensions have also raised alarms about maritime safety in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a crucial corridor for international shipping.
Furthermore, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty noted that Cairo is collaborating with Red Sea countries to bolster regional security through economic development, logistical coordination, and strengthened partnerships.
Egypt’s stance illustrates its commitment to supporting Saudi Arabia’s security while avoiding direct involvement in offensive military actions in Yemen.