Egypt pledges to support Saudi Arabia in Houthi war

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi pledged on October 17, 2026, that Egypt is ready to help defend Saudi Arabia against attacks by Yemen's Houthi forces if requested. Sisi made the statement at a graduation ceremony at the Egyptian Military Academy in Cairo.

The Houthis have intensified their attacks on Saudi Arabia, hitting Riyadh’s international airport and oil installations such as those of Saudi Aramco. At least 19 people have been killed in these attacks, with thousands of flights affected globally.

In response to the escalating conflict, Egypt's National Defense Council agreed to provide "all possible forms of support" to enable Saudi Arabia to defend its security and territorial integrity. The Egyptian presidency stated that Cairo will offer necessary assistance to protect Saudi Arabia’s resources, stability, and Islamic holy sites.

On October 18, Sisi requested an urgent parliamentary session to authorize military action if needed. Discussions were expected to continue into Monday as lawmakers deliberated on the request for military support.

Saudi Arabia has been pressing allies for more robust military assistance due to the increasing number of Houthi drone and missile attacks. The country’s defense minister met with the United Arab Emirates president to discuss cooperation against the threat posed by the Houthis, who are backed by Iran.