Egypt's Parliament Delays Vote on Defensive Support for Saudi Arabia

Egypt’s House of Representatives has postponed a vote on authorising defensive support to Saudi Arabia, with deliberations set to continue on Monday, October 19th, to allow more lawmakers to speak.

The session followed a request from President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi for parliamentary authorisation to provide Saudi Arabia with defensive assistance if the kingdom asks for support. President El-Sisi had said Egypt was prepared to take necessary measures in defence of Saudi security while stressing that Cairo was not seeking to attack any party.

Earlier on October 18th, Egypt’s National Defence Council said the country would provide all necessary and possible support to Saudi Arabia in protecting its borders, security and stability. The council also called for political and diplomatic efforts to contain regional escalation and pursue peaceful solutions.

Member of Parliament Mostafa Bakry said discussions over authorising the president to send forces to Saudi Arabia would continue for three days. No vote was held during Sunday’s session.