Egypt’s National Defense Council, chaired by President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, has resolved to provide “all possible forms of support” to Saudi Arabia in response to escalating attacks by the Houthi-led Ansarallah movement, according to a statement released after a meeting. The decision, which includes political, diplomatic, and military measures, comes as Egypt’s parliament prepares to vote on authorizing troop deployment to the Kingdom, requiring 398 of 596 votes to pass under constitutional rules.
The council emphasized its “full support and complete solidarity” with Saudi Arabia, citing “historical ties and solid bonds” between the two nations and framing Saudi security as inseparable from Egyptian and Arab interests. The resolution also called for “intensifying political and diplomatic efforts” to de-escalate regional tensions and achieve peaceful resolutions to ongoing crises. Egypt’s military involvement in Yemen, which includes naval and air support, has been part of a broader regional strategy to counter Iranian influence, though specifics of the current mission remain unspecified.
Council Outlines Regional Actions
The National Defense Council’s decision followed a meeting attended by senior military and political figures, including the Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces, the Prime Minister, and the Minister of Foreign Affairs. The council’s statement highlighted the “grave escalations” in the region, particularly attacks on Saudi Arabia, and outlined three key actions: expressing solidarity, extending support to safeguard Saudi security, and advancing diplomatic efforts. The move aligns with Saudi Arabia’s strategy of strengthening ties with Arab Gulf states amid regional tensions.
Egypt’s role in Yemen dates back to the 2015-2022 Arab coalition, where it contributed naval and air assets to protect shipping lanes. However, its potential deployment of ground forces remains contentious. Lawmakers have questioned the mission’s scope, with the Egyptian Social Democratic Party pledging to abstain over concerns about "risks to Egyptian troops" and lack of clarity on objectives. Mostafa Bakry, a government-aligned lawmaker, stated that any forces deployed would “protect Saudi installations within the Kingdom’s territory, not beyond it,” though this guidance has not been formally documented.
Gathering Highlights Egypt's Mediation
This gathering highlights Egypt’s growing role in mediating conflicts in the Red Sea basin and nearby regions.
Parliament Votes on Military Authorization
Egypt’s parliament is scheduled to vote on October 26, 2026, on President Sisi’s request for authorization to send military support to Saudi Arabia. The vote has drawn scrutiny due to historical parallels, including Egypt’s 1962-1970 intervention in Yemen, which involved 70,000 troops and resulted in significant casualties. The current debate also reflects Egypt’s balancing act between Gulf alliances and regional stability, as seen in its diplomatic efforts to contain conflicts since the Israeli-US war on Iran began in late February.
Opposition lawmakers have criticized the lack of transparency, with some noting that the New Administrative Capital—where the parliament meets—was built with Saudi and Gulf investment. Meanwhile, Saudi commentator Abdul Rahman Al-Rashed argued that Egypt’s support sends a message to Iran and the Arab world about its evolving regional role.
Egypt’s involvement in regional conflicts has already cost the country an estimated $20 billion in indirect economic losses since 2023, according to President Sisi.
Current Approach Seeks Legislative Approval
This contrasts with Egypt’s current approach, which seeks legislative approval despite the risks.
Strategic Uncertainties and Regional Reactions
“Saudi Arabia is not fighting in Yemen with ground forces, so it would make little sense for it to ask Egypt to send troops,” he said.