Egypt Considers Military Support for Saudi Arabia Amid Houthi Threats

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has requested Parliament’s authorization for the military to assist Saudi Arabia. This follows increased attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels on the kingdom. Al-Sisi emphasized the assistance would be defensive and contingent upon a formal request from Saudi Arabia.

“Egypt will take any measures requested by Saudi Arabia to protect and defend it,” al-Sisi stated during a military graduation ceremony. The Egyptian Constitution requires the president to consult the National Defense Council and secure a two-thirds majority in Parliament before sending armed forces abroad on combat missions.

On Sunday, al-Sisi led a National Defense Council meeting to discuss the “grave escalations unfolding in the region” and the “unacceptable attacks” on Saudi Arabia. The council resolved to provide “all necessary and possible forms of support to the sisterly Kingdom of Saudi Arabia to defend its security and stability.”

Egypt has so far avoided involvement in regional military conflicts, focusing on de-escalation and political resolutions. This diplomatic approach is considered by some as one of al-Sisi’s significant achievements.

Retired army brigadier Samir Ragheb emphasized Egypt’s commitment to Gulf security. He told CBS News, “Egypt has repeatedly pledged to support the security of the Gulf states.” However, he warned, “If Egypt fails to deliver on these promises, they will lose their meaning.”

Ragheb also noted the substantial investments Gulf states have made in Egypt, urging the country to “return the favor morally.” The Egyptian Parliament was expected to vote on the resolution to deploy troops, but the vote has been postponed.

The Egyptian Social Democratic Party instructed its members to abstain, citing insufficient information on “the mission’s scope, costs, and risks.” Ragheb believes the regional threat transcends the Houthis, mentioning Iran, Iraqi militias, and sleeper cells in Saudi Arabia.

He argued that Egypt’s involvement in the region is crucial for maintaining influence. “If you want to be a regional player, you must play a role,” Ragheb stressed.

He criticized the United States for not intervening against the Houthis, suggesting that regional powers like Egypt need to step in. Other countries are also seeking to assert their influence. Saudi Arabia recently signed a joint defense pact, the Mecca Accords, with Turkey and Pakistan.

Ragheb believes this agreement signals the end of reliance on the U.S. for Saudi defense. “The Mecca Accords was a death certificate for the idea of relying on America,” he added.