Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has asked parliament to grant emergency authorization for possible military intervention to defend Saudi Arabia against attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthi rebels.
Speaking at a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy on Saturday, October 17, al-Sisi said Egypt was prepared to act if Riyadh requested assistance but stressed that any intervention would require parliamentary approval.
“I call on parliament to convene an emergency session to authorised us to take action to intervene in defence of Saudi Arabia, if we are asked to do so,” he said.
“This move and this defence require approval from the Egyptian parliament. I hope parliament will convene an emergency session to grant this authoritative.
“I am not speaking about attacking or waging war. We are seeking only to defend.”
Egypt’s House of Representatives subsequently scheduled an emergency session for Sunday, October 18, to consider the request.
Al-Sisi described Saudi Arabia’s security as vital to Egypt’s interests and warned against threats to the kingdom, Red Sea security and international shipping routes.
“We are not looking for a role to play, but it is absolutely unacceptable for us to allow the kingdom of Saudi Arabia to be targeted or for its security and stability to be undermined,” he added.
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The announcement comes amid renewed Houthi missile and drone attacks on Saudi infrastructure, including Riyadh’s international airport and facilities belonging to state oil company Saudi Aramco.
Fighting intensified after a truce in Yemen collapsed, with Saudi-backed forces launching a fresh campaign against the Houthis, who control significant territory in the country.
Egypt’s move follows increased military cooperation between Saudi Arabia, Pakistan and Turkey under the Mecca Joint Defence Agreement, signed on August 7, 2026. The agreement treats an armed attack against one member as an attack against all three.
Pakistan has deployed military personnel and resources to Saudi Arabia. Its Foreign Ministry confirmed on October 9 that the deployment was defensive and did not involve operations inside Yemen.
Turkey has also reportedly provided air defence systems, intelligence support, drone operators and logistical assistance, Reuters reported. Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan said on October 12 that he would submit the agreement to parliament for ratification.
Earlier in October, officials from the three countries met in Riyadh and agreed to coordinate military resources to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s defences against Houthi attacks.
Neither Pakistan nor Turkey has confirmed deploying combat troops into Yemen, with their reported support focused on protecting Saudi territory.
Egypt is also considering joining the defence alliance. Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty said on October 13 that Cairo was examining the possibility but had yet to make a final decision.
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