Egypt’s parliament has authorised President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi to take measures to support Saudi Arabia’s defence amid escalating attacks by Yemen’s Houthi movement, marking a significant development in regional security.

The decision was approved during a closed parliamentary session on October 26, 2026, following a request from President el-Sisi. The measure allows Egypt to provide support if Saudi Arabia formally requests assistance, according to reports by Reuters and the Associated Press.

Egyptian officials have stressed that the country’s role would be defensive, focused on protecting Saudi territory, borders, sovereignty and critical infrastructure. The authorities have not announced a confirmed deployment of Egyptian ground troops to Yemen.

The decision comes amid rising regional tensions, with Houthi attacks threatening Saudi infrastructure and important shipping routes near the Red Sea. The area is strategically important for Egypt because the Suez Canal is a major route for international trade and maritime transport.

The parliamentary move has also prompted questions among opposition groups about the potential mission’s objectives, duration, financial costs and risks. Some lawmakers called for greater clarity, while others emphasised the importance of diplomacy to prevent further escalation.

Egypt has historically maintained close political and economic ties with Saudi Arabia and previously contributed naval support to the Saudi-led coalition during Yemen’s conflict.

The latest authorisation does not, by itself, confirm that Egyptian forces have entered the conflict. The extent of any future assistance will depend on further decisions and coordination between Cairo and Riyadh.

The development is likely to draw close attention across the Middle East as governments assess the implications for regional security, energy infrastructure and shipping through the Red Sea.