Egyptian lawmakers have deferred a decision on possible military assistance to Saudi Arabia after attacks on the kingdom, while a scholar warns that intervention could weaken Cairo’s regional role.
Akhbar El Yom reported that a second House of Representatives session on President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s request ended Oct. 19 without a vote. An emergency session on Oct. 18 had also produced no decision.
Egypt’s National Defense Council pledged support for Saudi Arabia on Oct. 18 after attacks on the kingdom. Its statement did not specify a deployment. Al-Sisi has said Egypt would send forces only if Riyadh requested help.
Article 152 of Egypt’s Constitution requires consultation with the council and approval from two-thirds of the House for a combat deployment abroad.
University of Birmingham associate professor May Darwich told France 24 that she saw no clear objectives or exit plan for a possible military operation. She said involvement under those circumstances might weaken Egypt’s regional role.
A United Nations human rights report lists Egypt among the Saudi-led coalition’s members when it formed in March 2015.
The House is scheduled to resume debate Oct. 26, Akhbar El Yom reported.
