Egyptian President Abdel Fattah el-Sisi met with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman on September 12, 2026, to discuss secure navigation in the Red Sea and the security of Saudi Arabia and Gulf states. During the meeting, el-Sisi stated, “relations between Egypt and Saudi Arabia can only be exemplary within the Arab framework.” The meeting came as Saudi Arabia has lost key territories, including coastal areas vital for oil shipping, to the Iran-aligned Houthis.
The meeting between el-Sisi and MBS was prompted by recent disruptions in the Red Sea, which have impacted Egypt’s economy. Suez Canal revenues dropped by $7 billion in two years, reflecting the broader economic challenges faced by the region due to the ongoing conflict. MBS emphasized the importance of secure navigation in both the Bab al-Mandeb Strait and the Red Sea, highlighting the strategic significance of these waterways for global trade and energy supply routes.
In recent months, Saudi-linked ships have been targeted by the Houthis, further exacerbating security concerns. The capture of Mocha port by Yemen’s Houthi rebels has effectively given them control over the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, a critical passage for maritime traffic. This development has heightened tensions and underscored the need for coordinated security measures to ensure the safety of maritime navigation in the region.
The meeting between el-Sisi and MBS also addressed the broader security challenges facing the Gulf states, with both leaders stressing the importance of regional cooperation to address the threats posed by the Houthis. The discussions focused on ways to enhance maritime security and protect vital shipping lanes, which are crucial for the global economy and regional stability.
The meeting concluded with a reaffirmation of the strong ties between Egypt and Saudi Arabia, emphasizing the need for continued collaboration to address regional security challenges. Both leaders agreed to work closely together to ensure the safety and security of the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, recognizing the critical role these waterways play in global trade and energy supply.
The meeting between el-Sisi and MBS highlights the ongoing efforts to address security concerns in the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, with both leaders committing to further cooperation to safeguard these vital maritime routes.