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Egypt fortifies Saudi defences as Yemen conflict escalates
Published : Thursday, 12 November, 2026 at 11:33 AM
Observer Online Report
Collected Photo
Egypt has deployed fighter jets, air defence systems, and troops to Saudi Arabia while stationing warships near the Bab el-Mandeb strait, though its military leadership remains split over joining a ground offensive in Yemen.
According to Middle East Eye, Cairo sent a squadron of Rafale fighter jets, eight helicopters, four transport aircraft, and Skyguard-Amoun air defence systems to strategic sites in Saudi Arabia. Egyptian warships have also moved near the Bab el-Mandeb strait in the southern Red Sea to safeguard maritime trade and the Suez Canal.
Egyptian Foreign Minister Badr Abdelatty confirmed the deployment to France 24 on Monday (November 9), noting it began months ago following regional attacks amid tensions with Iran. Parliament later approved President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi’s request to authorise defensive deployments on October 26.
However, Egyptian commanders remain divided over direct ground combat in Yemen. One senior official said Sisi favours direct intervention to weaken Houthi forces and protect the Red Sea, alongside considerations of Riyadh’s financial backing, which includes a recently renewed $5.3 billion deposit in Egypt's central bank.
Conversely, another military source said the armed forces and National Defense Council oppose a ground war, mindful of Egypt’s costly seven-year intervention in Yemen’s 1962 civil war under Gamal Abdel Nasser. To avoid another quagmire, Cairo may limit its role to air and naval operations.
-EM
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Editor : Iqbal Sobhan Chowdhury
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Published by the Editor on behalf of the Observer Ltd. from Globe Printers, 24/A, New Eskaton Road, Ramna, Dhaka.
Editorial, News and Commercial Offices : Aziz Bhaban (2nd floor), 93, Motijheel C/A, Dhaka-1000.
Phone: PABX- 41053001-06; Advertisement: 41053012; 01793317829, 01550707291, 01550707296
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