Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has announced Egypt's readiness to take any measures requested by Saudi Arabia to defend its security and sovereignty. He has called upon the Egyptian Parliament to convene an emergency session to grant the armed forces a mandate for action should Riyadh request assistance.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony for new classes at the Egyptian Military Academy in the New Administrative Capital on Saturday, President Sisi stated that Egypt stands firmly with the Gulf states. He emphasized that any potential Egyptian military action would be defensive, not offensive.
The President added that Cairo is prepared to implement necessary measures to protect Saudi Arabia, in accordance with the directives of King Salman bin Abdulaziz and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He stressed that such action would require the approval of the Egyptian Parliament.
Sisi's remarks come amidst escalating Houthi attacks on Saudi Arabia, including targeting vital installations, energy facilities, and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, within the context of the widening military confrontation linked to the war in Yemen. According to Reuters, the Egyptian Parliament announced its intention to hold an emergency plenary session on Sunday in response to President Sisi's request, without disclosing the specific agenda.
The Egyptian President invoked the support provided by Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Kuwait to Egypt after 2013, noting that oil and gas supplies, as well as wheat and other Gulf aid, contributed to bolstering the Egyptian state's capabilities.
The Egyptian stance reflects increasing coordination with Riyadh regarding regional security threats, particularly in light of the repercussions of the escalation on the security of the Red Sea and international navigation. These interests are directly linked to the Suez Canal and the Egyptian economy.
