Saudi Crown Prince and Egyptian President discuss Red Sea security

On September 15, 2026, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman and Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi met in Cairo to address rising security concerns in the Red Sea. The leaders focused on the strategic threat posed by Houthi rebels who recently seized the western coast of Yemen and the Bab el-Mandeb Strait. Both parties emphasized the critical need to maintain freedom and safety of navigation through the Bab el-Mandeb and the Strait of Hormuz, which are essential for global trade and Saudi oil exports.

Following the Houthi-led naval blockade initiated in July and regional disruptions, Saudi Arabia has become increasingly reliant on Egyptian infrastructure to transport hydrocarbons, particularly via the Sumed pipeline. During the meeting, President el-Sisi reiterated Egypt's full support for measures taken by Riyadh to protect its national security and regional stability. This diplomatic engagement highlights the deepening cooperation between the two nations as they face common threats to their energy supply routes and maritime navigation.