Why is Egypt so wary of getting involved in Yemen’s conflict?

Egypt is considering military support for Saudi Arabia following intensified Houthi attacks, including a strike on King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh that killed 13 people, including one Egyptian. While Egypt's National Defence Council announced on October 18 that the country was ready to provide "all necessary and possible support to Saudi Arabia to defend its safety and stability," Cairo has repeatedly clarified it has no intention of directly attacking the Houthis.

Historical Precedent

The suggestion of Egyptian military intervention in Yemen has brought back memories of a previous involvement in 1962, when Egyptian forces supported republican forces in North Yemen against Saudi-backed royalists. Although the republican side ultimately won, Egyptian forces withdrew after suffering heavy losses and their defeat in the 1967 war against Israel.

Government Position

Following backlash against suggestions of direct military intervention, President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi emphasized that any deployment would focus on defending Saudi Arabia, not engaging in aggression against Yemen's Houthi rebels. Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty subsequently called for a political solution to the conflict.

Parliamentary Vote

Even a defensive combat mission would require approval from the Egyptian parliament as it involves deploying forces outside the country's borders. A vote is scheduled for Monday after a weeklong delay to allow reticent lawmakers to deliberate on the proposed move.

Strategic Concerns

Egypt's wariness stems from a desire to avoid foreign military entanglements and direct involvement in the US-Israel war on Iran and its allies. Active participation in attacks against the Houthis could expose Egypt to retaliation from the group or Iran, which have demonstrated capability to pinpoint vital civilian and military targets in Saudi Arabia.