Egypt’s Sisi Seeks Parliamentary Approval to Defend Saudi Arabia if Requested

Egypt’s parliament is set to hold an emergency session on Sunday after President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi called on lawmakers to authorise support for Saudi Arabia’s defence against Houthi attacks if Riyadh requests assistance.

Saudi Arabia leads a military coalition backing Yemen’s internationally recognised government in its conflict with the Iran-aligned Houthi movement. Egypt joined the Saudi-led intervention in 2015, although its involvement has primarily focused on securing Red Sea shipping routes rather than conducting frontline military operations.

Since the conflict in Yemen escalated again in July, the Houthis have intensified attacks on Saudi targets, including energy infrastructure and Riyadh’s international airport, where 13 people were reportedly killed in an attack last week.

The Houthis have also announced a maritime blockade targeting Saudi Arabia and seized territory around the Bab al-Mandab Strait, a strategically important passage connecting the Red Sea to the Gulf of Aden. The waterway has gained further significance for Saudi oil exports as Iran seeks to disrupt shipping through the Strait of Hormuz.

Addressing a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy, Sisi said Cairo could not stand by while Saudi Arabia faced attacks or threats to its security and stability.

“It is inconceivable for Egypt to stand by while Saudi Arabia is harmed or its security and stability threatened,” he said.

Sisi pledged that Egypt would take action to protect the kingdom in accordance with the directives of Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman.

He also reaffirmed Cairo’s commitment to defending Gulf nations, declaring that Egypt stood firmly behind its regional partners.

Before asking attendees to stand and offer a military salute to the Gulf states, Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support for protecting its Arab neighbours.

“I’m not talking about fighting anyone or attacking anyone,” he added. “We are speaking only about defence.”

Following Sisi’s remarks, Egyptian state media reported that parliament would convene an emergency session on Sunday at the president’s request. However, no further details about the proposed authorisation were immediately disclosed.

Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, the kingdom’s de facto leader, visited Cairo last month. During the visit, Egypt reaffirmed its support for any measures Saudi Arabia might take to protect its national security.

The two leaders also called for ensuring freedom of navigation and maritime security in the Red Sea, a crucial international trade corridor that provides access to the Suez Canal.

The escalating conflict also threatens Egypt’s economy. Continued disruptions to Red Sea shipping could further reduce Suez Canal revenues, a vital source of foreign currency for the country.

Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said last month that the canal had lost approximately $11 billion in revenue since the Houthis began attacking commercial vessels in 2023. The group has described its campaign as an act of solidarity with Palestinians during the war in Gaza.

Despite its longstanding military and financial ties with Gulf countries, Egypt has not joined the defence agreement signed by Saudi Arabia, Turkey and Pakistan in August. Cairo has traditionally favoured diplomatic engagement over participation in regional military alliances.

Turkey said in August that the defence pact remained open to additional members, including Egypt. However, Egyptian authorities have said they are examining the agreement in depth and have yet to decide whether to join.

Saudi Arabia has long been a major financial supporter of Egypt, providing substantial assistance following the 2013 ouster of Islamist president Mohammed Morsi and helping Cairo navigate subsequent economic crises.