Egypt's parliament is convening sessions to consider authorizing the deployment of troops in support of Saudi Arabia against Houthi forces. The meetings appear designed to demonstrate broad government backing for any action. Should approval fall short, officials could cite the lack of parliamentary consensus as justification for restraint.

Egypt maintains longstanding close ties with Saudi Arabia. President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi has signaled willingness to assist Riyadh amid ongoing threats.

The developments follow repeated Houthi strikes on Saudi territory that have caused multiple casualties. Six individuals were wounded in the latest overnight incidents, according to reports from Saudi media.

State outlet Al-Ahram indicated that parliamentary discussions on granting el-Sisi authority to dispatch forces would span three days, as stated by one lawmaker.

MP Mostafa Bakry confirmed the sessions would extend over that period due to high interest among representatives wishing to speak.

National Defense Council Commits Full Backing to Riyadh

Yemen's government welcomed Egypt's stance. Egypt's National Defense Council separately pledged all feasible assistance to Saudi Arabia in safeguarding its borders.

El-Sisi requested an emergency parliamentary session to enable protective measures for Saudi Arabia upon request. Bakry noted the proceedings, which started Sunday afternoon, would run for two additional days given the volume of speakers.

The initiative occurs alongside el-Sisi's recent efforts to ease strains with Israel and his stated intention not to extend his tenure beyond 2030. He assumed power in 2013 after the military ousted President Mohammed Morsi amid widespread protests.

Al-Ahram reported that a vote on the troop authorization is slated for Tuesday. Three major pro-government parties have endorsed the defensive deployment, controlling 392 of 596 seats and falling just short of the required majority.

The House of Representatives met in full session Sunday at the president's call. The National Defense Council earlier affirmed it would supply all necessary support to Riyadh while pursuing de-escalation and political solutions for regional stability.

Strategic Benefits for Egypt in Backing Riyadh

Egypt stands to gain operational experience alongside international partners, including potential coordination with US Central Command. The move could strengthen relations with Saudi Arabia as well as Pakistan and Turkey while pressuring Houthi positions.

Cairo also prioritizes stability around the Horn of Africa and remains attentive to conflicts in Sudan and Ethiopia. Limiting Houthi influence might allow Egypt expanded influence over Red Sea security.

El-Sisi stated Thursday that attacks on Saudi Arabia threaten Egyptian and Arab security interests. He emphasized Egypt's refusal to tolerate violations of Saudi borders or risks to Red Sea shipping lanes. Egypt and Iran held talks in Baghdad on Saturday focused on regional calming measures, including halting strikes on Saudi targets.