What happened
Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi announced that Egypt is prepared to assist in defending Saudi Arabia against attacks by Yemen’s Houthi forces if requested, according to a report by Dawn. Speaking at an Egyptian Military Academy ceremony, Sisi emphasized that Cairo is strictly focused on defensive measures rather than offensive operations. He noted that any military deployment requires legislative authorization, with Egyptian state media reporting an emergency parliamentary session to evaluate support for Saudi security.
Key facts
- President Sisi stated that while Egypt does not seek a role in regional conflicts, it cannot allow Saudi Arabia's stability to be threatened.
- Saudi coalition spokesman Turki al-Malki reported that four Houthi drones targeting Riyadh, the Eastern Province, and the south were intercepted and destroyed.
- Houthi-affiliated media claimed that Saudi air strikes killed 12 people in Taiz and Dhamar, alleging cluster munitions were used, though coalition officials did not immediately comment on the claim.
- Iranian Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi renewed an offer to mediate between the parties and advocated for an inclusive political solution during an Organisation of Islamic Cooperation meeting in Baghdad.
- The International Committee of the Red Cross facilitated the release of 159 pro-government fighters freed by the Houthis under an amnesty following recent territorial advances.
Why it matters
The intensifying hostilities since July pose significant risks to regional trade and economic infrastructure. According to Dawn, Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty stated that Houthi attacks on maritime shipping have caused an estimated $11 billion loss in Suez Canal revenues since 2023. Furthermore, Houthi control of territory near the Bab al-Mandab Strait places ongoing pressure on critical Red Sea shipping corridors and global energy exports.
Source: Dawn - Home · Published October 18, 2026 · Photo by Pao Pattarapol on Unsplash