Egypt has reaffirmed its support for Saudi Arabia after missile and drone attacks targeted parts of the kingdom, while Cairo continued to call for diplomatic efforts to prevent further escalation across the Middle East.

Egypt’s Foreign Ministry condemned attacks aimed at Saudi territory, describing them as a threat to regional security and stability. The statement followed reports of missile attacks targeting areas including Taif and Yanbu.

The latest developments have increased concerns about the wider security situation in the region. Saudi authorities reported that its air defences intercepted two drones launched toward the Riyadh area on September 26. A ballistic missile was also reported intercepted near Khamis Mushait, according to Saudi authorities.

Egypt has closely followed the developments because of its strategic and security relationship with Saudi Arabia and its wider interests in the Red Sea and surrounding waterways.

Cairo has said that attacks against Saudi territory threaten regional stability and has expressed support for measures taken by Riyadh to protect its territory and population. Egyptian officials have also stressed the importance of maintaining freedom and security of maritime navigation.

The latest Egyptian position follows a September 22 meeting involving the foreign ministers of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan on the sidelines of the United Nations General Assembly in New York. The four countries expressed concern about regional hostilities and said dialogue and diplomacy were necessary for sustainable solutions. They also affirmed Saudi Arabia’s right to defend itself in accordance with international law and the UN Charter.

Egypt has simultaneously maintained diplomatic engagement with Yemen’s internationally recognised authorities.

On September 25, President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi spoke by telephone with Rashad Al-Alimi, chairman of Yemen’s Presidential Leadership Council. According to Egypt’s presidency, the discussion focused on developments in Yemen and efforts to restore security and stability.

During the call, El-Sisi reiterated Egypt’s support for Yemen’s unity, territorial integrity and national institutions. He also reaffirmed Cairo’s support for efforts aimed at achieving a comprehensive political settlement that reflects the aspirations of the Yemeni people.

The Egyptian government’s position reflects its broader approach to the Yemen crisis. Cairo has repeatedly called for political dialogue and has maintained that regional conflicts require diplomatic solutions rather than continued military escalation.

The Red Sea is particularly important to Egypt because the Suez Canal represents a major international trade route connecting the Mediterranean with the Red Sea and the Indian Ocean. Continued insecurity in the region can affect shipping routes, trade flows and the broader Egyptian economy.

Egypt has therefore also emphasised the importance of protecting international maritime navigation. The foreign ministers of Egypt, Saudi Arabia, Türkiye and Pakistan specifically highlighted the need to maintain safe navigation during their recent consultations.

At the United Nations General Assembly this week, Egypt has also pushed for stronger international diplomacy and reform of the UN Security Council.

Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly, who represented Egypt at the high-level segment on behalf of President El-Sisi, called for expanded Security Council membership and greater representation for Africa. He also argued for increased investment in preventive diplomacy and mediation to address conflicts before they develop into wider crises.

Egypt has linked these international positions to its wider regional diplomacy. The government has said that reducing escalation, addressing the causes of conflicts and supporting political settlements should remain central to international efforts.

The latest Saudi attacks therefore come at a time when Cairo is simultaneously dealing with several regional security challenges, including the situation in Yemen, tensions surrounding maritime routes and the continuing conflict affecting the Middle East.

Egypt’s diplomatic message has remained focused on regional stability, respect for national sovereignty and political negotiations.

For Saudi Arabia, the immediate security priority remains protecting its territory from further missile and drone attacks. For Egypt, the developments highlight the importance of preventing the conflict from expanding and disrupting regional trade and maritime security.

The situation remains fluid, and further developments will depend on the actions of the parties involved and ongoing diplomatic efforts across the region.