Egypt's Ssisi says he'll defend Saudi Arabia, if asked

Egypt's President Abdel Fattah al-Sissi told a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian military academy on Saturday that his country stands ready to defend Saudi Arabia, if asked to do so. Sissi emphasized that while Egypt is not seeking a role in regional conflicts, it would be "inconceivable" to allow Saudi Arabia's security or stability to be harmed.

The comments came as Yemen's Iran-backed Houthis have increased attacks on Saudi targets, including strikes on energy facilities and the kingdom's main airport. Sissi made the statement at the request of King Salman and Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman. He clarified that the defense would be limited to defense measures, not fighting or attacking anyone.

Sissi noted that an emergency session in Egypt's parliament is expected to consider authorizing assistance to Saudi Arabia if asked. This session is scheduled to take place on Sunday. Egypt and Saudi Arabia have strong strategic and economic ties, with Egypt having participated in the Saudi-led coalition that intervened in Yemen's civil war in 2015 to support the Yemeni government against the Houthis.

The Houthis' attacks against Saudi Arabia, including a deadly one against the King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, have disrupted shipping traffic in the Red Sea, impacting the Suez Canal's revenue.