Egypt's parliament approves military support for Saudi Arabia

CAIRO — Egypt's House of Representatives on Monday approved President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi's request to provide military assistance to Saudi Arabia, including the possibility of deploying troops to defend the Kingdom's territory, sovereignty and holy sites.The authorization was approved by a two-thirds majority following closed-door parliamentary deliberations, according to an official statement.Parliament said the decision empowers Sisi to take measures in coordination with Saudi Arabia to defend the Kingdom amid escalating regional tensions.The approval followed three closed-door sessions held on October 18, 19 and 26 at the president's request.Lawmakers discussed regional developments and their implications for Egyptian and Arab national security, with representatives of political parties and independent members participating in the deliberations.Parliament said the authorization was consistent with decisions adopted by Egypt's National Defense Council during its October 18 meeting.Earlier Monday, lawmakers resumed discussions in a third closed-door session chaired by Parliament Speaker Hisham Badawi, following two meetings held the previous week.The decision comes amid escalating hostilities between the Houthi militia and the coalition supporting Yemen's internationally recognized government.Saudi authorities have reported repeated drone and missile attacks targeting several areas of the Kingdom, including Riyadh and southern regions.