Egypt authorizes military support for Saudi Arabia against Houthi threats

The Egyptian parliament authorized the country's military on Monday to provide defensive support to Saudi Arabia upon request. The move follows a formal proposal submitted by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi last week, aiming to counter intensified attacks by Yemen’s Iran-allied Houthi rebels. The decision reflects Egypt's growing concern over regional stability and the protection of the Bab el-Mandeb Strait, a critical maritime passage for the Suez Canal.

While Egypt has historically participated in the Saudi-led coalition in Yemen—primarily as a naval partner since March 2015—this new authorization potentially marks a shift toward deeper direct engagement. Despite frequently condemning Iran-backed attacks in the Gulf, Egypt has remained cautious about full-scale combat involvement. The country has yet to officially join the 'Mecca Pact' for mutual defense, signed in August by Saudi Arabia, Pakistan, and Turkey, though Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty has indicated that membership remains under active consideration.

This parliamentary mandate creates a legal framework for potential military action should Riyadh request assistance. It positions Egypt to play a more proactive role in safeguarding regional shipping lanes and curbing the threat posed by Houthi advancements in the Gulf.