Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has clarified that any military support provided to Saudi Arabia by Egypt would be limited to defensive measures, strictly excluding offensive operations against Yemen. This stance underscores Egypt’s commitment to safeguarding regional stability and national security without active engagement in foreign conflicts.
The announcement comes amidst ongoing deliberations in Egypt regarding a proposal that would permit President El-Sisi to authorize defensive military assistance to Saudi Arabia. The Egyptian Parliament has postponed discussions on this measure until October 26. Under Egypt’s constitutional framework, deploying armed forces in combat missions abroad necessitates consultation with the National Defense Council and a two-thirds majority approval from Parliament.
President El-Sisi emphasized the interconnectedness of Egypt’s national interests with the security of Arab nations, particularly the Gulf states. He reiterated Egypt’s policy of noninterference in the internal affairs of other countries, a commitment to protecting national institutions, and opposition to armed militias.
This policy statement comes at a time of heightened regional security concerns, particularly due to increased Houthi missile and drone attacks targeting Saudi Arabia. These tensions have also raised alarms about maritime safety in the Red Sea and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, an essential corridor for global shipping.
In a related development, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty highlighted Egypt’s ongoing cooperation with countries bordering the Red Sea. This collaboration aims to enhance regional security through economic development, logistical coordination, and strengthened partnerships.
Egypt’s approach reflects a strategic effort to support Saudi Arabia’s security framework while deliberately avoiding entanglement in the offensive military undertakings in Yemen. The focus remains on defensive collaborations that align with Egypt’s broader regional security interests.