EGYPT PLEDGES ‘NECESSARY’ SUPPORT FOR SAUDI ARABIA AS HOUTHI ATTACKS ESCALATE

Sun 18 October 2026:

Cairo affirms readiness for “all necessary and possible support” as Yemen’s rebels target the kingdom; diplomatic push for de-escalation continues

Egypt has declared it stands ready to provide “all necessary and possible support to Saudi Arabia to defend its safety and stability,” as Houthi forces in Yemen intensify strikes on the kingdom.

The National Defence Council, led by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, stated on Sunday that Egypt “stands fully with” Saudi Arabia in defending its resources, territorial integrity, and Islamic holy sites. The presidency further indicated that Cairo would step up diplomatic efforts aimed at reducing tensions.

The Iran-aligned Houthis, also known as Ansar Allah, have recently struck Riyadh’s international airport and facilities belonging to state oil company Saudi Aramco. These attacks come amid renewed clashes in Yemen between the Houthis and forces supporting the Saudi-backed, internationally recognised government, following the breakdown of a truce.

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In a Saturday address, Sisi said Egypt would act according to guidance from Saudi King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, who visited Egypt last month as fighting in Yemen resumed. He also requested an emergency session of parliament to empower him to approve any Saudi requests for defence assistance.

Egypt’s House of Representatives is convening in plenary on Sunday in response to the president’s call.

During last month’s meeting in Cairo with the Saudi crown prince, Sisi endorsed Saudi calls for secure and unhindered navigation in the Red Sea. A statement issued by the Egyptian presidency at the time declared that “the security of Saudi Arabia and the Gulf states is an integral part of Egypt’s national security.”

Analysts note that Riyadh seeks assistance to safeguard the kingdom and Red Sea shipping lanes. Egypt, whose Suez Canal revenues rely on the same maritime traffic, is viewed as a natural partner. Cairo is particularly keen to prevent Iran and its allies from gaining influence over the region—especially maritime routes in the Red Sea—due to the direct impact on the Suez Canal.

Saudi Arabia has charged that Iran is encouraging the Houthi attacks, an allegation Tehran denies.

SOURCE: INDEPENDENT PRESS AND NEWS AGENCIES

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