Saudi Arabia is facing relentless attacks from Houthi rebels, prompting serious security concerns. In response, Egypt’s President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi declared on Sunday that Egypt is fully prepared to extend all possible assistance to maintain Saudi Arabia’s security and stability. This comes as Iran-backed Houthi rebels intensify strikes against the world’s largest oil exporter.
Egypt’s Emergency Parliamentary Session
President al-Sisi called an emergency session of the Egyptian Parliament to authorize the military to provide support if Saudi Arabia requests assistance. Egypt’s military ranks among the most powerful in the region, and recent Houthi attacks targeted key sites in Riyadh, including the international airport and the state-owned oil company Saudi Aramco.
The conflict in Yemen has reignited after a ceasefire collapsed, leading to renewed fighting between the Saudi government and the Houthi insurgents. Egypt’s Presidency stated that the country is committed to protecting Saudi Arabia’s security, regional integrity, and Islamic holy sites by offering all necessary support.
National Defense Council Meeting and Strategic Partnership
According to Reuters, the statement followed a meeting of Egypt’s National Defense Council chaired by President al-Sisi. The gathering included the parliament speaker, the prime minister, and the military chief. The emergency parliamentary vote was scheduled for 1:00 PM local time (1000 GMT) to approve the support measures.
Earlier, on Saturday, President al-Sisi had highlighted Egypt’s readiness to act in accordance with the directives of Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. This follows a meeting on September 15 between the Egyptian president and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, occurring amid the resurgence of conflict in Yemen.
Deep Strategic and Economic Ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia
Egypt and Saudi Arabia share close strategic and economic relations. After the 2013 ouster of Egypt’s Islamist President Mohamed Morsi by the military, Saudi Arabia and other Gulf countries provided billions in aid, investments, and support to stabilize Egypt’s economy. Egypt had previously contributed in a limited combat role as part of the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s government against Houthi rebels since 2015.
This renewed commitment to Saudi security highlights the enduring alliance amid growing regional challenges. Egypt’s military readiness and political backing come at a crucial moment as Houthi attacks threaten a key regional partner and global oil supply.
