Egypt's Parliament has yet to authorize a possible military mission to defend Saudi Arabia from Houthi attacks, leaving President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi's proposal subject to constitutional and political approval.
On Saturday, Oct. 17, El-Sisi called for an emergency parliamentary session the next day to consider authorization if Riyadh requests assistance. On Sunday, Oct. 18, the National Defense Council pledged “all necessary and possible forms of support” for Saudi security and territorial integrity, without specifying a deployment.
The House met Sunday, Oct. 18, and Monday, Oct. 19, then adjourned without a vote, extending a parliamentary delay over the Saudi support proposal. Article 152 sets two conditions for an overseas combat deployment: consultation with the National Defense Council and approval by two-thirds of Parliament. Ahram Online reported that the 596-member chamber would need 398 votes.
On Wednesday, Oct. 21, El-Sisi said the effort would defend Saudi territory and borders and “does not include an attack on Yemen.” The council has not publicly outlined what forces or equipment Egypt might provide.
The Associated Press, citing an unnamed regional official, reported that Egypt could send air-defense systems and aircraft to intercept missiles and drones, while keeping ground troops out of Yemen. The council's public statement did not include those operational details.
Al Jazeera reported that the Egyptian Social Democratic Party told its lawmakers to abstain, citing a lack of information about the mission's goals, duration, cost and risks to troops.
Public readouts of Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman's Sept. 15 meeting with El-Sisi describe talks on regional security and maritime navigation but do not mention a military request. France 24 and the Associated Press reported that the crown prince sought Egyptian military support during the visit.
Britain's Ministry of Defence said Tuesday, Oct. 20, that Royal Air Force Typhoons would fly defensive missions over Saudi Arabia, supported by an A400M transport aircraft, military advisers and extended refueling support. It said the jets would not strike Houthi targets. The Associated Press reported that Yemen's conflict began in 2014 and a Saudi-led coalition intervened the following year to support the country's government. Ahram Online reported that parliamentary deliberations are scheduled to resume Monday, Oct. 26.
