Egypt’s parliament authorises Sisi to support Saudi Arabia’s defence

Egypt’s parliament on Monday approved by a two-thirds majority a measure authorising President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi to take necessary steps to support Saudi Arabia in defending its territory, sovereignty, and holy sites, following coordination between the two countries.

The decision was made during a closed-door session of the House of Representatives, chaired by Speaker Hisham Badawy and attended by Parliamentary Affairs Minister Hani Hanna and Major General Khaled Shahdi, assistant defence minister for constitutional and legal affairs, according to a government statement.

The session followed two earlier closed-door meetings on 18 -19 Oct., also convened at the president’s request. Parliament said the authorisation aligned with the consensus reached by the National Defence Council at its 18 Oct. meeting.

Speaking after the session, Hanna said Egypt was addressing regional developments through a strategic, responsible approach that prioritised national security and the protection of state resources while recognising its historical responsibilities to other Arab countries.

He said Cairo sought to balance national interests with regional commitments, exercising prudence in dealing with issues affecting regional security.

“Drawing on its historical experience and strategic vision, Egypt seeks to balance its national responsibilities with its pan-Arab commitments, addressing issues affecting regional security with prudence and deliberation to protect its national resources and interests while supporting the security and stability of its Arab brethren.” the minister said.

Hanna praised lawmakers’ participation in the discussions, saying their questions reflected an awareness of the issue’s sensitivity and its implications for Egypt’s national security.

He added that coordination among state institutions within their respective constitutional mandates, alongside cooperation between the executive and legislative branches, was essential to addressing regional challenges and safeguarding Egypt’s security and stability.