OMM Newsroom
Egypt’s parliament on Monday resumed closed-door discussions on whether to authorize President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi to provide military support to Saudi Arabia, including the possible deployment of troops, amid regional tensions, according to Anadolu Agency.
The third session, chaired by Parliament Speaker Hisham Badawi, followed two closed-door meetings held last week at Sisi’s request, Egyptian newspaper Al-Akhbar reported. Lawmakers were considering a presidential request to provide military assistance if Saudi Arabia asks for it.
The discussions came after 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 asked to speak during the parliamentary discussions, raising the possibility of further sessions before a final vote, Egyptian media reported. Deputy Parliament Speaker Assem el-Gazzar said more than 100 lawmakers had spoken during the previous two sessions, with most supporting authorization for Sisi to send troops to defend Saudi territory.
El-Gazzar said Egypt remained committed to diplomacy as its primary approach to maintaining peace. He added that the sessions were being held behind closed doors because lawmakers needed access to sensitive strategic information before making a decision.
Under Article 152 of Egypt’s Constitution, the president cannot declare war or deploy armed forces on combat missions beyond the country’s borders without consulting the National Defense Council and securing approval from two-thirds of parliament.
A final vote is expected after all lawmakers wishing to speak have presented their views. No decision on the authorization has yet been announced.
The discussions are taking place amid escalating hostilities between Yemen’s Houthis and the Saudi-led coalition backing 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 on the kingdom and reaffirmed Cairo’s commitment to supporting Saudi security and sovereignty.
Sisi has also said Egypt is ready to take measures requested by Saudi Arabia to defend its territory, while emphasizing diplomatic efforts to prevent further regional escalation.
