Sisi assures Saudi's MbS of Egypt's full support against Iranian attacks

Egyptian President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi has reaffirmed Cairo's strong backing for Saudi Arabia following recent Iranian strikes on the kingdom, describing the attacks as a violation of Arab sovereignty. During a telephone conversation with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on Monday, Sisi conveyed Egypt's solidarity with Riyadh amid the widening regional conflict now in its third week.

Cairo's diplomatic push for de-escalation

According to a statement from Egyptian presidential spokesman Mohamed el-Shenawy, Sisi expressed Egypt's "strong rejection and condemnation of the Iranian attacks on Saudi Arabia" and stressed the necessity of respecting the sovereignty of all Arab nations. The Egyptian leader also briefed the Saudi crown prince on Cairo's ongoing contacts with various regional and international actors aimed at reducing tensions. Sisi emphasized the "shared destiny" linking Egypt with Gulf states, noting that their national security is inseparable.

Shared security concerns

The conversation between the two leaders underscored growing Arab solidarity in the face of regional instability. Sisi highlighted the importance of strengthening joint Arab efforts to confront current challenges and activating the concept of joint Arab national security. The Saudi crown prince expressed appreciation for Egypt's supportive position and praised Cairo's role in maintaining stability across Arab states. Both sides agreed to continue consultations to enhance regional security and stability.

Wider regional context

The phone call comes as the conflict between Iran and US-led forces continues to escalate. Since Feb. 28, joint US-Israeli operations against Iran have resulted in over 1,300 fatalities, including a former Iranian leader. Tehran has responded with missile and drone strikes targeting what it describes as "US military assets" across Israel, Jordan, Iraq, and Gulf countries, drawing Gulf Arab states increasingly into the crossfire.