Egypt rules out offensive operations in Yemen under Saudi defense support
President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi says any Egyptian military assistance would protect Saudi territory without extending conflict into Yemen
CAIRO, Egypt (MNTV) — Egyptian President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi has said any military assistance Egypt provides to Saudi Arabia would be restricted to defending the Kingdom’s territory and would not involve offensive operations against Yemen, amid parliamentary deliberations over a possible Egyptian military role in regional security.
According to Arab News, El-Sisi’s position was conveyed in a statement by presidential spokesperson Mohammed El-Shennawy on Wednesday.
The president said Egypt could assist other Arab countries in defending their territory if requested, but any such action would remain limited to protecting Egypt or the state receiving assistance.
The remarks followed Egypt’s parliament postponing until October 26 a vote on authorizing military assistance to Saudi Arabia. The proposed measure would allow El-Sisi to approve defensive support if Riyadh requested it.
Egypt’s Constitution requires consultation with the National Defense Council and approval by a two-thirds parliamentary majority before armed forces can be deployed on combat missions abroad.
El-Sisi reiterated Cairo’s position that Arab national security is interconnected and that instability in Gulf countries could affect Egypt’s own security.
He also emphasized noninterference in other states’ domestic affairs and the preservation of national institutions.
The debate comes amid heightened regional tensions involving Yemen’s Houthis, Saudi Arabia and the security of shipping routes around the Red Sea and Bab al-Mandab Strait.
Saudi Arabia has faced missile and drone attacks, while disruptions to maritime traffic have raised concerns about regional trade and energy supplies.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has also said Cairo is working with Red Sea countries to strengthen regional security through economic, logistical and development partnerships.
The president’s statement draws a distinction between collective defense of Arab states and direct participation in offensive military operations inside Yemen, where an expanded regional military role could further complicate an already volatile conflict.
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