Egyptian parliament resumes closed-door talks on military support for Saudi Arabia
- Lawmakers discuss authorizing President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to deploy troops if Saudi Arabia requests assistance amid regional tensions
By Sahin Demir
ISTANBUL (AA) – Egypt’s parliament on Monday resumed closed-door discussions on authorizing President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to provide military support to Saudi Arabia, including the possible deployment of troops, amid regional tensions, local media reported.
The third session, chaired by Parliament Speaker Hisham Badawi, follows two closed-door meetings held last week at Sisi’s request, according to Egyptian newspaper Al-Akhbar.
The daily reported that lawmakers were examining a presidential request for authorization to provide military assistance to Saudi Arabia should the kingdom request it.
The discussions follow a meeting of Egypt’s National Defense Council, chaired by Sisi, which addressed regional developments and recent attacks targeting Saudi Arabia.
Nearly 500 lawmakers have requested to speak during the parliamentary discussions, raising the possibility of additional sessions before a final vote, according to Egyptian media.
Deputy Parliament Speaker Assem el-Gazzar said more than 100 lawmakers had spoken during the previous two sessions, with most expressing support for authorizing Sisi to send troops to defend Saudi territory.
He stressed that Egypt remained committed to diplomacy as its primary approach to maintaining peace.
The sessions are being held behind closed doors because lawmakers need access to sensitive strategic information before making a decision, he added.
Under Article 152 of Egypt’s Constitution, the president cannot declare war or deploy armed forces on combat missions outside the country’s borders without consulting the National Defense Council and obtaining approval from two-thirds of parliament.
The final vote is expected after lawmakers wishing to speak have presented their views.
No decision on the authorization has yet been announced.
The parliamentary discussions come amid escalating hostilities between Yemen’s Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition supporting Yemen’s internationally recognized government.
Saudi authorities have reported repeated drone and missile attacks targeting several areas of the kingdom, including Riyadh and southern regions near the Yemeni border.
On Oct. 19, Egypt’s National Defense Council expressed solidarity with Saudi Arabia following attacks targeting the kingdom, reaffirming Cairo’s commitment to supporting the Saudi security and sovereignty.
Sisi has also said Egypt stands ready to take measures requested by Saudi Arabia to defend its territory, while emphasizing diplomatic efforts to prevent further regional escalation.
Şahin Demir