UPDATE – Egypt’s parliament approves military support for Saudi Arabia

UPDATES WITH MORE DETAILS

By Rania Abushamala

ISTANBUL (AA) – Egypt’s House of Representatives on Monday approved President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s request for military assistance to Saudi Arabia, according to a parliamentary statement.

The approval followed closed-door discussions on authorizing military support to the kingdom, including the possible deployment of troops, amid escalating regional tensions.

Parliament said the authorization, approved by a two-thirds majority, allows Sisi to take measures in coordination with Saudi Arabia to defend the kingdom’s territory, sovereignty and holy sites.

The decision followed closed-door sessions held on Oct. 18, 19 and 26 at the president’s request, the statement said.

Lawmakers discussed regional developments and their implications for Egyptian and Arab national security, with representatives from different political parties and independent lawmakers participating, it added.

Parliament said the authorization was consistent with decisions taken by Egypt’s National Defense Council at its Oct. 18 meeting.

The statement did not specify the measures to be taken or explicitly announce a deployment of Egyptian troops.

​​​​​​​Earlier Monday, lawmakers resumed deliberations in a third closed-door session chaired by Parliament Speaker Hisham Badawi, following two meetings held last week at Sisi’s request.

The approval comes amid escalating hostilities between Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government.

​​​​​​​Saudi authorities have reported drone and missile attacks targeting several areas of the kingdom, including Riyadh and southern regions near the Yemeni border.

Rania R.a. Abushamala