Egypt says Red Sea, Bab al-Mandeb are national security concerns

Egypt’s Foreign Ministry said on Thursday that Cairo is growing increasingly concerned over regional instability, maritime security, and the need for broader diplomatic coordination to prevent further escalation in the Middle East.

At the center of Egypt’s position is the security of the Red Sea and the Bab al-Mandeb Strait, two strategically vital waterways that connect international shipping routes and play a significant role in Egypt’s national security and economic interests.

Cairo also disagrees with Iran’s assessment of its position on developments in Yemen, the Foreign Ministry said, reflecting wider diplomatic differences over regional security and the future of the conflict.

Meanwhile, the ministry said the planned Istanbul meeting on Friday will broaden consultations by involving European countries.

Egypt, Turkey, Saudi Arabia and Pakistan are aligned on the regional situation, the ministry said.

Egypt also called on the United States and Iran to return to their memorandum of understanding and build upon it.

“Conflicts in the region are increasing, which requires an expansion of consultations,” the ministry said.