Egypt Clarifies Position on Defense Mandate for Saudi Arabia, Denies Intentions of War on Yemen

The head of the Foreign Relations Committee in the Egyptian Parliament affirmed that the parliamentary mandate to defend Saudi Arabia aims to protect Arab national security, denying any intention for Egypt to engage in war with Yemen. He explained in televised remarks that Egypt's stance is not linked to any form of aggression, noting that President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's statements are clear and consistent with Egypt's diplomatic policy and the armed forces' doctrine. He added that Egypt is not at war with the Houthis or any other party, and is working to avoid conflict and military operations, emphasizing that the parliamentary authorization to the president is related to defending Saudi Arabia and taking necessary measures to protect it and safeguard Arab national security. He stressed that Arab national security is an integral part of Egypt's national security, and that the security ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia are strong, necessitating cooperation within an integrated Arab framework to confront threats. These remarks follow President El-Sisi's request for parliamentary authorization to take necessary measures to support Saudi Arabia militarily if needed. El-Sisi had previously stated on October 17 Egypt's readiness to take necessary actions to defend Saudi Arabia if requested, clarifying on October 21 that Egypt's military movement is limited to defending the kingdom's territory and borders and does not include launching an attack on Yemen.