Egypt pledges support for Saudi Arabia as Houthi attacks continue

Egypt pledged support for Saudi Arabia’s defence on Sunday as the kingdom faced continued missile and drone attacks by Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis.

Egypt’s National Defence Council, chaired by President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi, said Cairo stood ready to provide “all necessary and possible support” to protect Saudi security, territorial integrity, resources and Islamic holy sites. The presidency also said Egypt would step up diplomatic efforts to reduce tensions.

Sisi had said Saturday that any Egyptian role would be defensive and undertaken at Saudi Arabia’s request. He called for parliament to authorise potential assistance, but Egypt’s parliament postponed a vote on military support until Monday, Middle East Eye reported, citing Reuters.

Saudi authorities said four drones were intercepted over Riyadh, the Eastern Province and southern regions. Residents of Riyadh briefly received warnings to remain away from windows and doors, while remote learning measures were extended in Riyadh and nearby Diriyah. The Indian Embassy also urged its nationals to follow Saudi emergency instructions and shelter indoors during alerts.

The latest incidents follow sustained Houthi attacks on Saudi oil facilities, transport hubs and Riyadh’s airport. An attack near King Khalid International Airport on October 10 killed 13 people, including an Indian national, according to the reports. Saudi Arabia has accused Iran of encouraging the escalation, while Tehran denies the allegation and has offered to mediate.

Separately, Saudi Arabia executed five citizens in the Eastern Province after terrorism-related convictions. The Interior Ministry said they had joined a foreign terrorist organisation, fired at security personnel and supported attacks inside the kingdom. The ministry said the sentences were upheld on appeal and authorised by royal order.