Egypt has emphasized the necessity of exploring all opportunities for a diplomatic resolution to the Yemen crisis and has declared its position ahead of the parliamentary vote for authorization of military support for Saudi Arabia. Sameh Shoukry, the Egyptian Foreign Minister, stated that his country is willing to exert all efforts to achieve political solutions to this crisis.
Egypt's Military and Diplomatic Status
The decision for direct military intervention by Egypt, one of the largest armies in the region, could significantly alter the existing equations in the Yemen crisis. Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, the President of Egypt, called on Saturday for an urgent parliamentary session to approve military intervention in support of Saudi Arabia. After a closed session on Sunday, parliamentary representatives postponed the vote until October 26 to allow more time for consideration of the issue.
Egypt's Central Support for Saudi Arabia
The Egyptian Foreign Minister also emphasized that his country's support will be limited to defending the territory and borders of Saudi Arabia and will in no way include an attack on Yemen. In his press conference, he noted: "We must consider every opportunity to reach political solutions that include the complete withdrawal of the Houthis from occupied areas, especially near the Bab al-Mandab Strait, which is a vital point for Egypt's trade and security."
Clashes between the Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition, which supports the internationally recognized Yemeni government, have intensified since the Houthis advanced towards Bab al-Mandab in the Red Sea. These clashes have had a significant impact on global oil supply and have led to increased tensions in the region.
Saudi Arabia, as the world's largest oil exporter, is considered one of Egypt's vital strategic and economic partners. The war in Yemen, which began in 2014 and has led to a major humanitarian crisis, was triggered by the Houthi advance and Saudi military intervention. Additionally, the ceasefire agreement between the United States and the Houthis in 2022 had largely halted attacks.
Furthermore, Yahya Ali al-Rai, the head of the Houthi-controlled House of Representatives, warned on Saturday against Egypt's intervention and urged Parliament to reject the proposal. He stated: "If Egypt takes this path, it will pose a serious threat to its national security and internal stability."
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